As classrooms evolve into 21st century learning environments, new teaching ideologies are helping to create a generation of students who are globally connected, real-world problem solvers. In what has been dubbed Classroom 2.0, teachers are preparing their pupils for 21st century life by providing authentic learning experiences that allow students to explore the world around them, collaborate with others, manage information and demonstrate higher-order thinking skills using technology. In the Information Age, the classroom is no longer defined by a physical location. Learning happens anywhere and everywhere. Twenty-first century learning environments require innovative teaching strategies. In comparing 19th and 20th century teaching strategies with 21st century teaching strategies, one can quickly see that learning is becoming increasingly participatory and social.

Traditional vs. New Teaching Environments

  • Teacher-centred instruction vs. Learner-centred environments
  • Single sense stimulation vs. Multisensory stimulations
  • Single path progression vs. Multipath progression
  • Single media vs. Multimedia; hypermedia
  • Isolated work vs. Collaborative work
  • Information delivery vs. Information exchange, publication, creation
  • Passive learning vs. Active/exploratory/inquiry-based learning
  • Factual/literal thinking vs. Critical thinking, informed decision-making
  • Reactive response vs. Proactive/planned action
  • Isolated, artificial context vs. Authentic, real world context

As we re-think the purpose of education in the 21st century, we gain a better appreciation for the types of skills and thought processes that will best prepare our children for life in the Digital Age.