Framework for 21st century learning

Abstract

A unified vision for learning to ensure student success in a world where change is constant and learning never stops. The P21 Framework for 21st Century Learning was developed with input from educators, education experts, and business leaders to define and illustrate the skills, knowledge, expertise, and support systems that students need to succeed in work, life, and citizenship. The Framework continues to be used by thousands of educators and hundreds of schools in the U.S. and abroad to put 21st century skills at the center of learning. All elements of the Framework are critical to ensure 21st century readiness for every student. When a school, district, or state builds on this foundation, combining knowledge and skills with the necessary support systems of standards, assessments, curriculum and instruction, professional development, and learning environments -students are more engaged in the learning process and graduate better prepared to thrive in today's digitally and globally interconnected world. Key Subjects and 21st Century Themes Mastery of key subjects and 21st century themes is essential to student success. Key subjects include English, reading or language arts, world languages, arts, mathematics, economics, science, geography, history, government and civics. In addition, schools must promote an understanding of academic content at much higher levels by weaving 21st century interdisciplinary themes into key subjects: • Global Awareness • Financial, Economic, Business and Entrepreneurial Literacy • Civic Literacy • Health Literacy • Environmental Literacy Learning and Innovation Skills Learning and innovation skills are what separate students who are prepared for increasingly complex life and work environments in today's world and those who are not. They include: • Creativity and Innovation • Critical Thinking and Problem Solving • Communication • Collaboration Information, Media and Technology Skills Today, we live in a technology and media-driven environment, marked by access to an abundance of information, rapid changes in technology tools and the ability to collaborate and make individual contributions on an unprecedented scale. Effective citizens and workers must be able to exhibit a range of functional and critical thinking skills, such as: • Information Literacy • Media Literacy • ICT (Information, Communications and Technology) Literacy