Responsiveness
Responsiveness to all of our stakeholders ’ needs is required to build student success . In our new world , we can no longer afford to take our time to be responsive to student learning needs . In today ’ s world , instant gratification comes into play in that everyone has immediate access to information ; our school system cannot lag behind these everyday expectations . As stated earlier , technology enables immediate access to content and curriculum . In addition , it provides an avenue for streamlined and real time information about a student ’ s plans and progress . Technology helps organize national student data , personalized student data , improvement plans , etc . in an easily understood or adaptable dashboard format . Easy access to this information enables the teacher , the student , the administrator , or other key stakeholders to better target the learning and development of each student .
Relationships
Relationships , quality relationships , round out the last “ R ” as they serve as the necessary foundation for optimal learning and growth . Theodore Roosevelt was known to have said , “ people do not care what you know until they know that you care .” When teachers commit to building positive relationships with their students , learning happens at its highest levels . Building relationships takes time . Time is wasted when we hold firm to our traditional paradigms about education and the classroom in general . Effective use of classroom technology can free up the needed time and space to enable us to build and sustain quality relationships . When teachers meet their students “ where they are ” and adapt their own communication and engagement styles to that of their students , they are better prepared to build and sustain healthy and encouraging relationships . In 21st century learning , this incorporates changes to our communication methods . To that end , technological innovation is once again imperative . Our students have grown up with Facetime , online chat , and texting ; we must continue to compromise our own desires regarding how we communicate and adapt to that of our students .
In summary , I believe the present imperative in education calls for a change in our practices and mindsets . It is time for the education system to better equip and empower our teachers and students so that we may collaboratively create new experiences to develop a future generation of strong thinkers and doers . I trust rigor , relevance , resourcefulness , re-iteration , responsiveness and a commitment to relationships will result in 21st century learning and success for our students and our communities .
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