The moniker– 21st Century learning has been around for many years. Yet it gets a bad rap by some who consider it too cliche. So, I ask, fad or trend? Perhaps an era in time where 21st Century inspires change and innovation that will transform learing–a defining moment. In fact, I recently had coffee with the friend and colleague who is considering a master’s thesis focusing on trends and fads with integrating technology in education. Here’s I try to narrow the focus. Firstly, does the technology solve a problem? Is it easy to use? Does it link well to the curriculum? These are just a few key questions educators need to address when selecting their technology of choice. BTW, I think it’s a fabulous thesis topic!
Congratulations to Marty Keast, president Pearson K12 and member of MindShare’s advisory board, who was recently appointed to the Council of the Canadian Education Association (CEA).
This past month we partnered with the folks at Canadian Teachers Federation and the Media Awareness Network to promote Media Literacy week…they have some great resources and are doing amazing things to help teachers support students in being more media savvy… a critical skill in the 21st Century.
It’s awards season!
Edublog Awards deadline fast approaching December 13. I can think of a few deserving educators. Can you?
Association of Education Publishers Hall of Fame inductees. Unfortunately, I missed this fabulous event this year as there was too much going on back home in Canada…Congratulations to Don Johnston, Charlotte K. Frank, Ph.D., and Paul McFall on their induction into the Educational Publishing Hall of Fame! Congrats to the SIIA Announces Innovation Incubator Award Winners ’Most Innovative Product’ and ‘Most Likely to Succeed’ recognized at industry event. And the winners are!
2011 Pat Clifford Award Winner is Dr. Jessica Toste: Positive Teacher-Student Relationships play a unique role for students with special needs CEA is pleased to recognize Dr. Jessica Toste, postdoctoral research fellow in the Department of Special Education at Vanderbilt University and adjunct professor in the Department of Educational & Counselling Psychology at McGill University, for showing how teacher-student relationships can make a significant contribution to student success, particularly among those with special needs. Read more
Renewed Computers for Schools (RCT) Board members Recognized at Awards Ceremony Toronto City Hall
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| David Dollimore (former Director), John May (former Chair), and David Wai (former Chair and current Director) |
It was great to connect with former RCT board members recently to catch-up and share in their celebration. David Dollimore and David Wai were honoured for their contributions to the RCT board over the years. Their volunteer efforts helped extend the life of thousands of computers that made it in the hands of students across Ontario.
David Dollimore (former Director), John May (former Chair), and David Wai (former Chair and current Director)
A power generating stationary bike spotted at NYSCATE Conference recently. Hmmm, I thought of this concept some 25 years ago! Goes to show that things don’t happen overnight!
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| Congratulations to Bitstrips Inc.– Canadian DigiAwards Best in eLearning category winner! |
21st Century Learning Resources
The Federal Task Force on Financial Literacy The CMEC communique where Ministers commit to 21st Century
Learning models in September 2010 The BC report from the Premier’s Technology Council (December 2010)
The US Department of Education’s “Learning Powered by Technology (November 2010)
CMEC Mintues from Febbruary 2011 citing 21st century skills as a priority
Prime Minister’s Awards for Teaching Excellence and Excellence in Early Childhood Education
Until next time, walk the digital talk! R.M
