Has Technology Redefined Learning?

Technology has not completely changed how we learn, but I am sure that technology is shifting the definition of learning and what makes a successful learner in the modern day world.  The 21st Century Skills framework includes Learning and Innovation as crucial skills to acquire. The Partnership for 21st Century Skills states that these skills "separate students who are prepared for increasingly complex life and work environments in the 21st Century from those who are not prepared." And shouldn't this really be the focus of what our students our working towards in their education? What really is more important than being an productive adult who can manage their life and be successful in the workplace?
The video: http://newlearninginstitute.org/film-series/a-21st-century-education/technology-and-21st-century-learning helps support this viewpoint.  It's NOT about who is buried in Grant's tomb . Facts don't matter anymore and students won't reach their potential with just knowing their facts. They need to be problem solvers, critical thinkers, and decision makers. These are the skills necessary in the 21st century. Technology allows for students to gain these skills through exploring, engaging, and directing themselves in their learning instead of someone telling them what they need to know.

This is not a black and white issue. What should to be addressed is that technology alone can not redefine learning. Educators using technology as an integral part of their curriculum can change how students learn. Technology may be shifting the definition of learning, but it can't be done without the guidance, support, and facilitating of educators who have engaged their students and have their attention already. The article, Tech Happy Professor Reboots After Hearing His Teaching Advice Isn't Working, written by Jeffrey R. Young, acknowledges the need for a relationship between the professor and the student. Christopher Sorenson, named National Teacher of the Year, discussed the importance of his presence with his students. The article quotes him stating: "The messenger, ironically enough, is more important than the message.  If the messenger is excited and passionate about what they have to say, it leaves a good impression. It stimulates students to see what all this excitement is about." Students will always need teachers and educators to lead them down the best path for their learning.

Technology will continue to change education. And education will need to continue to evolve based on the rapid changes happening in the digital world. But most importantly, educators have to know what works for their students. It doesn't really matter how they are learning, as long as they become successful, life long learners.

Here is my group's collaborative conversation concerning how technology is redefining learning. What I found most effective in using the collaborative method was how other people's thoughts activated me to think more about the topic. Having other models of critical thinking to be able to reflect on furthered my own thought process.
http://typewith.me/p/Moodle_Mates

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