Teresa E. Sampson
In this paper, I will provide an analysis of some of the 21st Century Learning methods.
The first section begins with an outline of the general approach of 21st Century Learning. Next,
I will identify learning orientations from previous weeks that are also present in the 21st Century
Learning model. The third section includes a discussion of the Agile Learning concepts and its
relation to 21st Century Learning. A summary will be included in the final section that describes
person made up of the mind and the body and comes to a learning situation with a history, a
biography that interacts in individual ways with the experience that generates the nature of the
learning (p. 101). The ever-changing global economy requires that learners embrace
technology and gain the necessary skills to be successful in this digitally empowered culture.
Acqui (2012) states that, [T]he 21st century requires that the young generation be taught to
become citizens of the world, a world continuously changing (p. 46). Senan (2013) emphasizes
the 21st Century skills that are necessary, such as communication, collaboration, problem-
solving, analytical and critical thinking. The most important of this is the learners ability to
apply their new knowledge or skills to situations they encounter in the future (Senan, 2013). In
addition to these core skills, students must be adaptable, self-manage, have a systems-thinking
mindset, and the ability to solve complex problems (Senan, 2013). According to Acqui (2012),
flexibility is at the core of the 21st century, which also incorporates interactive, learner-centered
environments into the currently available digital technologies. The primary component of 21st
21ST CENTURY LEARNING METHODS ANALYSIS 3
Century learning is the focus of self-directional learning, empowering students to take control of
their education.
The 21st Century Learning model combines aspects from each of the learning orientations
we have learned in this course. The constructivist orientation is shown in the model in that it
takes advantage of the scaffolding approach to build upon previous knowledge and experiences
for a more effective learning situation (Senan, 2013). This perspective emphasizes the
importance of starting the learning process for technology and 21st Century skills at a young age
to provide a solid foundation for future learning (Senan, 2013). Senan (2013) argues that, In
order for students to be prepared to navigate this 21st century world, they must become literate in
abstract concept formation, and application of the new knowledge. The humanist orientation
also has roots within the model in that its focus is on the potential for the growth of the learner.
This orientation puts the learner in the drivers seat for his or her own learning experiences.
Once students encounter new information, it still has to be processed; therefore, the cognitive
orientation is represented from that perspective to create meaningful knowledge. The 21st
Century model is very collaborative in nature and requires communication and teamwork. This
stems from the social cognitive orientation in which we learn from each other in a social
environment.
This part of the paper includes some insights about agile learning and its relationship with
21st Century Learning. Batcheller (2016) states that, Agile learners are critical thinkers,
resilient under pressure, and curious, and they can deliver results in first-time situations (p.
430). In addition, agile learners are open-minded and strive for continuous growth and
development (Batcheller, 2016). This idea of agile learning incorporates the necessary flexibility
of learners to be competitive in the 21st Century Learning environment. I think the Agile
Learning approach is an extension to the 21st Century Learning Model because it further
emphasizes the empowerment of the learner to adapt quickly and to be willing to learn new skills
when necessary.
This section discusses the culture change that has occurred in the global learning
posits that, Learners must be encouraged to think beyond their immediate community, to
envision global implications of recommendations made for solving problems and to understand
possible consequences of decisions made (p. 49). According to Vito (2013), the most effective
learning environment is one that encourages experiential learning so that learners can rely on
via the internet. We carry encyclopedias around in our pockets, so the availability of information
engage and interact with our world. Our minds process information quickly, and we need to do
something with that information. We like to be engaged and to apply our new knowledge to
real-world applications. Solving problems is our challenge that keeps us engaged in learning and
continuous growth.
21ST CENTURY LEARNING METHODS ANALYSIS 5
Conclusion
In conclusion, this paper analyzed how the 21st Century Learning Model meets the needs
for present-day learners. The 21st Century Learning model incorporates aspects from other
foundational learning orientations. Agile Learning incorporates 21st Century Learning attributes
and takes it a step further. Our culture has transitioned from that of having a need for
information to one that takes a proactive approach to problem-solving. The 21st Century and
Agile Learning models create an environment that places the power of learning in the hands and
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doi:http://dx.doi.org.trevecca.idm.oclc.org/10.1515/bsrj-2016-0001
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