The Changing Roles of the Teacher and the Learner

How is the role of the teacher and learner changing in the 21st Century? Why? Where are you in this process?

In my opinion, the roles are becoming less distinct and are beginning to be interchangeable.  The generation being taught now in schools have been raised in a time where everything is at their fingertips. They don’t have to look at a book to find information, or go to the library, or find someone to ask.  Most students of today have access to a computer either at school or at home where they can find out almost anything with just a few clicks.  What this means for teachers is that there are times when students will be OUR teachers as WE learn to navigate through this digital world which to them is all they have ever known.  We have to both teach and learn from each other now.  

There’s a quote by Michael J Fox that says “ If a child can’t learn the way we teach, maybe we should teach the way they learn”.  I know this quote is meant in a different context, but in regards to the 21st century educator, I think it could mean that WE need to teach in a way that makes the best use of the digital world that they are so accustomed to. When you look at things like Google Classroom, the role of the teacher in an actual classroom could become somewhat obsolete. Obviously there will always be the need for teachers to be present and available to help students one on one, however most learning could probably be accomplished in a digital format.  Personally, I am just beginning this journey as a 21st century educator. I have found that the availability of digital French resources that are at an appropriate level of difficulty for my students is challenging, and using English systems and websites doesn’t often allow for accents and special characters.  I am placing priority on finding a way that students can use their own devices safely and effectively to create a consistent digital component to my classes. Students learn better and are more engaged when they have an interest in what they are doing, and for most, putting pen to paper just isn’t something they are interested in doing. It is amazing to me that we have moved away from that so quickly that my students can’t read my writing if I use cursive.  It is just a sign that teachers can’t just do the same thing year after year, and the need for continuing teacher education and professional development is paramount in order to stay current in this digital world.