Applying Developmental Theories to Teach Students 21 Century Skills

Applying Developmental Theories to Teach Students 21 Century Skills Educators are faced everyday with new, innovative ways to prepare young people for the 21 Century. Even though technically we are already leaving in the 21 Century, our schools are not there yet. Teachers need to prepare students for the jobs that have not yet been created, for the new products that have not yet been invented, and for the new skills to build towards creativity and innovation. According to Partnerships for 21 Century Skills, there is a profound gap between the knowledge and skills most students learn in school and the knowledge and skills they need in typical 21st century communities and workplaces. To successfully face rigorous higher education coursework, career challenges and a globally competitive workforce, U.S. schools must align classroom environments with real world environments by fusing the 3Rs: English, reading or language arts; mathematics; science; foreign languages; civics; government; economics; arts; history; and geography, and 4 Cs: Critical thinking and problem solving; communication, collaboration; and creativity and innovation. In addition, we should be preparing our students to use technology effectively and to develop skills for careers and life. Furthermore, young people should develop awareness and respect to cultural differences. According to Bronfenbrenner’s ecological system theory, the interaction between the different systems will have an impact on how the child develops and behaves. As a teacher I am aware that adolescents in my classes have issues with their families that affect their learning. For example the stress of losing a job will also stress the child. The changes in the parent’s life impact the child’s life. (exosystem). It is important for me to know about culture, customs and values of my students to understand some behaviors. ( macrosystem), as well as events that have affected the child. For example divorced parents (

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