Diffusion of Innovation
Needs of 21st Century Learners, Barriers, and
Diffusion of Innovation to Support Change
Needs of 21st Century Learner
A paradigm shift is needed to educate the 21st century learner. Focusing on the 4 C’s of creativity, collaboration, communication and critical thinking while integrating these into instruction is needed to meet the needs of our learners. As students apply these skills, they are incorporating innovation. As stated in Wagner’s book, Creating Innovators, students must have a purpose, a passion and learn through play. Additionally, students need to continue developing their technology skills and ability to manage information. 21st century learning skills will support students in developing life and career skills.
Barriers to Overcome
Several teachers are prepared to educate students through the use of integrated technology curriculum, however, the tools are not available for teachers and students. Fortunately, NVUSD is encouraging students to “bring your own device”(BYOD) which is moving technology integration forward at a more rapid rate of implementation. Another barrier that exists is training and curriculum development to support technology in the classroom. Infrastructure that allows student internet access is improving but increasing bandwidth continues to be an issue. Maintaining equipment is an ongoing challenge. When students bring their own device many of these issues are non-existent.
How the Theory of Diffusion of Innovation can Support Change
Through the theory of diffusion, there are innovators and early adopters that bring others forward in technology integration. When there is a group of early majority adopters the remaining educators are supported and eventually join the group of educators in technology integration. Currently, collaborative instructional approaches, such as Edmodo, is supporting and moving teachers forward by infusing technology into professional development and meeting situations. Google Tools support teachers in organizing and managing their work and as a tool in educating their students.
A paradigm shift is needed to educate the 21st century learner. Focusing on the 4 C’s of creativity, collaboration, communication and critical thinking while integrating these into instruction is needed to meet the needs of our learners. As students apply these skills, they are incorporating innovation. As stated in Wagner’s book, Creating Innovators, students must have a purpose, a passion and learn through play. Additionally, students need to continue developing their technology skills and ability to manage information. 21st century learning skills will support students in developing life and career skills.
Barriers to Overcome
Several teachers are prepared to educate students through the use of integrated technology curriculum, however, the tools are not available for teachers and students. Fortunately, NVUSD is encouraging students to “bring your own device”(BYOD) which is moving technology integration forward at a more rapid rate of implementation. Another barrier that exists is training and curriculum development to support technology in the classroom. Infrastructure that allows student internet access is improving but increasing bandwidth continues to be an issue. Maintaining equipment is an ongoing challenge. When students bring their own device many of these issues are non-existent.
How the Theory of Diffusion of Innovation can Support Change
Through the theory of diffusion, there are innovators and early adopters that bring others forward in technology integration. When there is a group of early majority adopters the remaining educators are supported and eventually join the group of educators in technology integration. Currently, collaborative instructional approaches, such as Edmodo, is supporting and moving teachers forward by infusing technology into professional development and meeting situations. Google Tools support teachers in organizing and managing their work and as a tool in educating their students.