The world is changing around us, so it only makes sense that how we educate our younger generations should change also – and this change is already starting to take place.
Our education system over the last century has remained more or less unchanged in style, curriculum, and teaching and testing methods. It is more than past time that we begin rebuilding our education system to reflect our societies more liberal, creative, and forward thinking ways.
The changes that are finding their ways into the education system are only the beginning of the future of learning.
How Is Education Changing?
Over the last few years, many new methods, tools, and curriculums have been introduced into many educational systems, from elementary through to post secondary.
Some of the more prominent changes that have been introduced include:
Online Delivery
Online delivery of post-secondary programs has taken over these last few years; learning is moving online and there are a number of reasons why this new method has proven so popular and so successful.
Online training is convenient, flexible, affordable, and just generally easier than the traditional in-class setting.
By doing your courses online, you have the flexibility to work where you want, how you want, and when you want. This makes online learning extremely convenient for anyone who lives far from campus, who works full or part-time and can’t make it to regularly scheduled classes, who travels full time, or who simply wants to, and has the self discipline to, work on their own schedule.
Personalized Learning
In a world where we recognize everyone as a unique individual, why do we assume that a standardized education is the best option?
Luckily, curriculums are beginning to trend more towards personalized learning; each student has different skills, learning styles, preferences, and interests. If students, especially children, are to thrive in their learning environment, we must teach in a way that inspires them and connects with them.
Project and Experience Based
Not only is a standardized curriculum slowly on the way out, but so are standardized teaching methods. Educators are realizing that for children and adults alike, the best way to learn something is to experience it.
Many curriculums are phasing out standardized testing, such as multiple choice style tests, in favour of more creative and individual-centered assessments such as projects or activities. These curriculums are also changing to include more practical teaching methods, such as work experience placements, to help better prepare students and give them an understanding of how to apply the information they are learning in real-world situations.
The Future Is Now
If we wish to see our education system evolve to keep up with our constantly evolving lifestyles, ideologies, and needs, we need to make those changes happen.
Education is the foundation of our society and we need to ensure that future generations are learning to the best of their abilities and will allow them to thrive regardless of their persona or situation.
