Essentials Magazine Essentials Fall 2019 | Page 37

Community-Based Partnerships
The increase
in technology
combined with
the focus on
collaboration
and flexible
learning
environments
has affected
the way we
use space and
furniture.
ment. Many elementary students are
extremely comfortable and competent
with computers, tablets, smart phones,
and smart boards. Thanks to technolo-
gy, students aren’t restricted to learning
within the confines of a traditional
classroom…they can learn anywhere,
anytime, and often in a way that best
fits their learning styles.
The pioneering environments that
support 21st century learning are
flexible, versatile, tech-infused spaces
that are catalysts for teachers to provide
groundbreaking approaches to educa-
tion. But it’s not just the educational
environment that is changing.
Work Environments are Shifting
Can you think of a career that isn’t
more integrated now with technol-
ogy than just a few years ago? Most
jobs rely heavily on technology, some
careers are absolutely dependent upon
it, and others are simply enhanced
because of it. Gallup reports that 43%
of today’s employees telecommute at
least some of the time, with nearly all
of them utilizing technology to stay
connected. In addition, manufacturing,
healthcare, and financial sector jobs
increasingly rely on information and
collaboration technology.
The stronger encouragement of
collaboration and teamwork in today’s
workplace is fueled by technology.
Communities are Hungry
Twenty-first century learning focus-
es on the 4 “C’s” – Communication,
Collaboration, Critical Thinking, and
Creativity. These same principles align
with the educational mindset of our
communities today. We must be certain
that we’re responding to current re-
search, while also being attuned to the
world around us.
The options and opportunities we
provide to students and the emergence
of fresh approaches to learning must
be based on technology, new research
regarding the human brain, and a more
collaborative and student-led approach
to education. We must be mindful of
what factors are changing in our local
community. Are community leaders
focusing on attracting a specific type of
industry? Is a unique trade or business
sector expanding swiftly in the region?
Are there skillset deficits in the area?
It is vital for business, community, and
educational leaders to be engaged with
one another.
This teamwork will guarantee that
the needs of the area’s workforce are
appropriately aligned with accessi-
ble educational programs and skills
training. In many communities there
is a chasm between the anticipated
workforce needs of the future and the
anticipated knowledge and skill level
of students. Are we equipping (and
establishing the vision) for students to
obtain four-year or associates degrees,
or applicable trade certifications when
they graduate? Are we working in
partnership with businesses, chambers,
educational foundations, colleges, uni-
Elementary aged students aren’t intimidat-
ed by today’s technologies and embrace
the use of mobile devices and other smart
electronics.
versities, and concerned citizens? Are
we creating new programs, facilities,
and even events that will assist our stu-
dents and their families to ensure local,
regional, and national workforce needs
are properly aligned with our skills
training and educational programs?
Innovation Demands Flexibility
The increase in technology com-
bined with the focus on collaboration
and flexible learning environments
has affected the way we use space and
furniture. It is no longer essential we
sit at a desk in order to learn. Com-
fortable chairs, or even bean bags, are
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