21st Century Learning
21st century learning means using multiple measures of student data to customize curriculum and instruction so that each student has the best possible opportunities to master state learning standards and to acquire 21st century skills. Some students keep pace with the curriculum and learn by traditional methods of instruction while many others accelerate or lag behind. In fact, a student who accelerates in one subject area often lags in another. Every student in every school is learning in his or her own way at some point. 21st century learning environments must leverage digital technologies, media, and content to meet the needs of individual students and enable all children to maximize their abilities and pursue personal interests.
21st Century Teaching
There is widespread consensus that a 21st century teacher should be a coach or facilitator rather than a sage on the stage. But an effective 21st century teacher must be far more than just “a guide on the side.” 21st century teachers must be sophisticated analysts and designers who integrate a wide variety of digital technologies, media, and content to customize learning for every student based on individual needs, abilities, and interests. 21st century teaching means less time delivering instruction and more time tracking the progress of individual students in meeting college- and career-ready standards—improving academic achievement by providing additional support when and where each student needs it most.
Data-Driven Innovation
Data-Driven Innovation means collaborative work structured around multiple measures of student learning in a reflective process of continuous improvement. Research on what works provides an essential but incomplete guide to action. We need innovations driven by data to meet the demands of 21st century learners and employers. Information systems for student achievement and school improvement must be paired with dynamic professional learning communities for teachers. Administrators and policymakers need to empower cross-functional teams to identify and implement the most promising digital technologies, media, and content for customizing curriculum and instruction to increase student achievement.
