Resources: Gardner, H. (2008). “5 Minds for the Future.” Boston, MA: Harvard Business Press.
Jerald, C.D. (2009). “Defining a 21st Century Education.” www.cfsd16.org/public/_century/pdf/Defininga21stCenturyEducation_Jerald_2009.pdf
Partnership for 21stCentury Skills. (2007). “Framework for 21st Century Learning.” www.p21.org/our-work/p21-framework.
Pink, D.H. (2005). “A Whole New Mind: Moving from the Information Age to the Conceptual Age.” New York: Riverhead Books. 21st-century skillMaria Montessori’s teachingsExamples Critical thinking and problem solvingUnencumbered by standard patterns of thought, children are free to rejoice in trial and error and to innately innovate.Higher-level thinking skills promoted by extended work periods with time to conceptualize, evaluate, and analyze. Creativity and curiosityChildren are innately creative and curious — schools must be designed to allow time and space for both.The uninterrupted work cycle and encouragement for intellectual risk taking and experimentation.Independence and executive functionGiven the right environment, carefully prepared to allow freedom within limits to discover and construct understanding, children thrive as independent learners.Weekly goal setting with advisors promotes independence, time management, and organization. Prepared environment with tools and materials within reach to foster independent choices and decisions.CollaborationChildren naturally seek to explore and share what they learn with their peers — learning spaces must be designed to facilitate this communication.Team-based learning in mixed-age programs with suites and common areas. Service learning.LeadershipGiven the opportunity to interact with younger and older peers, children learn to play roles as leaders and followers, and understand their responsibilities for each.Three-year cycle provides distinct markers for personal, social, and emotional growth. Leadership and social responsibility through service learning.Cross-cultural competenceChildren must see themselves as connected to others within and across cultures — the study of cultures then becomes an exploration of humans across similarities and differences.Culture studies and global studies. Linked social studies and science units.Social ResponsibilityThrough articulated practical life, grace and courtesy, and service learning curricula, children learn to care for themselves, others and their environment.Stewardship through service learning. Community service. Overnight trips.
