The 21st Century Classroom

What should a 21st century classroom look? This is a question many educators find themselves asking. However, there is no single right or wrong answer. I have spent some time reflecting upon what a 21st century classroom looks like for me, a new teacher being trained in an educational institution with a focus in technological leadership. The following blog post will explore my vision of a 21st century classroom pulling from some of my own beliefs about education, learning and the acquisition of knowledge. It is drawn from my support and belief in the theories of constructivism, progressivism and social-reconstructionism.

I feel that the 21st century classroom should be designed to be student-centred. In other words, the classroom should be designed to meet the needs of students and help facilitate student success. There are many elements to consider when creating a 21st century classroom. These elements essentially can be organized into 4 categories: the academic, the physical, the technological, and the cultural.

The academic elements within the 21st century classroom are intended to create a more interactive, collaborative and student-centred environment. One major academic change that is imperative to the 21st century classroom is student choice. Students should be given some choice in the way they are to present information and what information they choose to further research. This will help to increase student engagement and help to nurture student-specific interests. There is also a major push towards experiential learning (including increased field trips, simulations, and authentic learning experiences). Furthermore, much of the learning that goes on the 21st century classroom should be interactive, inquiry based, promote higher order thinking and include collaboration, sharing of ideas and group discussions.

The changes in the academic elements in the classroom in turn influence the technology present in the classroom. This is not to say one needs technology to construct the 21st century classroom. A teacher can create his/her own 21st century classroom with little to no technology. However, if a teacher has access to technology, the technology can help to facilitate student learning. Some technologies that are currently being used and introduced into the classroom include: computers, laptops, tablets, SMART boards, clickers, Ipads, Ipods, Livescribe pens, front row, document cameras, cellphones/smart phones, wifi, classroom blogs and gaming devices (including wii, xbox, kinect, etc..). These different technological tools can help to engage students, facilitate collaborative learning and provide differentiated instruction.

The physical layout of the classroom can also differ from the traditional classroom. For examples, student desks are arranged in groups (or there are tables rather than desks) with the intention of encouraging collaboration. Many other elements (although not essential) can be incorporated in the 21st century including: swivel chairs, tables on wheels, technology centres (i.e. an Ipod centre), white boards and other forms of technology. Although the 21st century classroom could have a different physical layout than organized in the past, a 21st century teacher will be adaptable and use the elements that he/she already has to create his/her 21st century classroom. Creating a 21st century classroom should not be limited by equipment.

The culture of the 21st century classroom is also essential to the creation and facilitation of 21st century learning. The 21st century classroom encourages the respect and acceptance of others, their perspectives and opinions. It is a collaborative environment in which students are encouraged to share their thoughts, ideas, knowledge and learning with their teacher and peers. It is a safe space for all students. The 21st century classroom is a diverse place. Even with the diversity and differences in the classroom, there is a sincere sense of community and belonging. In addition, it is an innovative classroom that encourages taking risks and trying new things. This quality is also reflected in the academic element of the classroom with the inclusion of creative and innovative lessons from the teacher. It is a student-centred environment that promotes and supports student curiosity and interests. It is a place in which each student can be his/herself while learning, growing and exploring. It is the type of place that will create life-long learners, innovators, and critical thinkers.


*The photos above were taken from:
http://pndblog.typepad.com/pndblog/2008/09/edutopias-ten-p.html
http://www.smithsystem.com/21stCenturyClassroom/
http://www.securedgenetworks.com/secure-edge-networks-blog/bid/51752/5-Reasons-Technology-in-the-Classroom-Engages-Students