21 Century skills & Education : 2

What was your favorite subject in school? Can you remember what it was like to be in an Elementary school classroom? The 21 century has changed many of those childhood memories due to advancing technology. The use of technology is a very important component of the world in which we live.  This is why in a technology era it is not hard to believe that education is also being effected dramatically. Technology is now introduced to students as early as kindergarten.  From test to homework assignment access to technology is becoming more demanding. There is an innovative notion of implementing "21 century skill" in the everyday classrooms around the United States.  According to, Metiri Group in partnership with The North Central Regional Educational Laboratory, “The driving force for the 21st century is the intellectual capital of citizens. Political, social, and economic advances in the United States during this millennium will be possible only if the intellectual potential of America’s youth is developed now.” An essential role of schooling is to equip students with the necessary tool to be successful in today’s world. So what are some 21 century skills, I know you are wondering? According to Metiri Group there are four skills that are needed:

1) Digital Age Literacy—Today’s Basics:
Consisting of proficiency in basic, scientific, and technological literacy; visual and information literacy; cultural Literacy and global Awareness

2) Inventive Thinking—Intellectual Capital:
Consisting of adaptability/managing complexity and self-direction; curiosity, creativity and risk-taking; higher order thinking and sound reasoning

3) Interactive Communication—Social and Personal Skills and Quality:
Consisting of teaming and collaboration; personal and social responsibility; interactive communication

4) State-of-the-Art Results:
Consisting of prioritizing, planning, and managing for results; effective use of real-world tools; high quality results with real-world application

Computer literacy is now one of the most important skills a child can obtain. As a result technology has become second nature to children. For example I have a six year old niece who is able to fully operate her mother's 2009 Dell notebook. As soon as she comes home from school she immediately gets online and plays Disney channel games. Though simple these interactive games benefits children because they absorb the computer skills and knowledge before the reach adulthood. Much like they would if they were to learn a seconded language. One of the down falls would be it takes from the family dynamic, because if a child is always occupied with technology they spend less time interacting with their family. Although these 21 century skills are needed to function in society there is still room for error. So I'll leave you with this question, is there truly a need for children younger than seven year old to have access to technology?