Reflection+Four

As I read several articles in preparation for formulating my philosophy of instructional technology. One concept stood out: technology has always been around. We often times confuse 21st Century technology with 21st Century skills. There is a correlation between the two, but they are not interchangeable. 21st Century tools give greater potential to 21st Century skills: collaboration, communication, critical thinking, and creativity.
 * Description**


 * Impact**

Educators must be able to discern between these two categories. I for one, tend to think of 21st Century skills as ones related to technology, but this is not correct. Educators must learn how to select instructional tools that will foster the 4 Cs. If teachers continue to view 21st Century skills as technology skills, they will being doing a disservice to their students if they avoid fostering the 4 Cs which are truly what is needed in the 21st Century.


 * Intent**

From this point forward, I will deliberately not think of 21st Century skills as those relating to technology tools. I will, however, make it a point to select technology tools that will allow my students to collaborate, communicate, think critically, and to be creative.