As new technology emerges and most work is done online, it is more important than ever to teach students how to adapt in the ever-changing digital world they live. This is where “Future Ready” schools and “Future Ready” educators become essential.
The Alliance for Excellent Education describes, “Future Ready is a free, bold new effort to maximize digital learning opportunities and help school districts move quickly toward preparing students for success in college, a career, and citizenship.” As school districts invest in developing Future Ready schools, educators must also make sure they are preparing to embrace digital learning to be “future ready” educators. What does this look like?
A Lifelong Learner
For starters, future ready educators are lifelong learners. They are regularly learning about modern technology, as well as new ways to implement technology into their teaching practices. They are continuously seeking professional development to grow and learn. They recognize the importance of becoming an expert in the technology their students use so that they may use them in the classroom.
Highly Adaptable
Future ready educators understand that technology is constantly changing and evolving. Therefore, they are highly adaptable. When one means of technology no longer works, they can adjust effortlessly. They regularly change lessons and plans to incorporate new technology or digital content.
A Strong Collaborator
Successful future ready educators are also strong collaborators who recognize the importance of group dynamics, team planning, and strategizing with others. They understand the outstanding potential of collaboration when creating content online and pass this knowledge onto their students.
Relevant and Engaging
Future ready educators find digital content and educational technology that is relevant and engaging. Rather than using the same materials year after year, these educators seek the most relevant materials to engage their students in the learning process.
Globally Conscious
Globally conscious teachers are often future ready educators. This is because they understand the importance of preparing their students for the world far beyond their classrooms. These teachers invest in opportunities where they can help prepare their students to become global citizens.
According to Erin Dowd, “Innovative and meaningful global learning experiences are not only within reach, but are rapidly becoming the norm at schools around the world.” Future ready educators are leading the way.
An Astute Digital Citizen
Finally, future ready educators are astute digital citizens. They model strong digital citizenship skills for their students by curating reliable content, citing sources, and practicing ethical online behaviors.
Did we miss any attributes of “future ready” educators?
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