21st Century Skills

  This chapter over 21st centurey skills was just one example of how technology can transfer a school.  Reading about how implementing technology into the classroom can affect both teachers and students should drastically change how we approach education.  We are beginning to teach in a world that relies on technology and the advantages that we can see being produced such as efficient use of time, more involvement from students, and better collaboration from everyone. 
   I have never been in a school that was struggling quite like this one in New York, but I have seen the many resources and educational options that are available by using technology and I am not suprised by such a turn of events.  The Google Applications are just one great available resource for teachers, but as we have looked at in classes throughout our education there are many more to also explore.  It can be difficult to keep up with all the advances in technology, but I think it is important to devote time to continuing to advance for the benifit of both the teacher and student.  One quote from the book that really expresses how important it is for schools to continue updating there technological useses is, "We're just on first base, we haven't fully used the tools that are out there, and there are tons more coming."  This just show that no matter how great you think your school is advancing there is always another step forward to take. 
   These skills and advancements are not only good for the students but also for the teachers and parents who are trying to keep students involved and their work under control.  With using technology to set up discussions, grade papers, record attendence and behavior, teachers are able to inform both principles and parents of how the students are really doing.  The imediate interaction between parents and teachers or students and teachers creates a whole new classroom atmosphere.  It is not only important to have teachers and students on the same page with technology, but getting the parents involved in the process will create a better collaboration and more help given to students from home. 
    It is no surprise that Google and other forms of 21st century technology have transformed classrooms, but we can only be prepared for more advances.  Applying these skills as a teacher will help the students, parents, and yourself when preparing lessons and activities for the classroom.  It takes collaboration and willingness to adapt on all sides and it is our job as the new incoming teachers to help evolve our schools into the technological schools of the future. 

*Book- Retool Your School by: James Lerman & Ronique Hicks