My staff and I have talked about the need to incorporate 21st century skills into the curriculum. However, many teachers question why should we do this when our students still lack basic academic skills. What's the answer?
Your staff is not alone in their concerns. It may be helpful for you to visit the Partnership for 21st Century Skills and look through their materials and resources. One free document in particular, Learning for the 21st Century, addresses how basic skills and 21st century skills are complimentary, not mutually exclusive. You can download this report at "Reports and Publications (http://www.21stcenturyskills.org/reports/default.asp). This site also offers educators an opportunity to participate in discussions about 21st century skills and their place in today's curriculum.
Submitted by: Susan Brooks-Young
