Some say schools are broken, but many school systems are still doing exactly what they were designed to do during the industrial era: sort, rank, and prepare young people for factory work. However, the world has drastically changed, and we no longer need people to simply comply, whether at work or as contributing citizens. We need individuals who understand their social-emotional needs, build relationships, learn continuously, solve complex problems, think critically, and leverage technology as a powerful tool, among many other skills. It is time to build newer and better systems that support every learner in navigating their unique journey and engaging in the world as their best selves.
When we look to learners, we can identify what’s working and what’s challenging, and ultimately, we can envision what’s possible. Evolution in education involves applying insights from our experiences, incorporating research from the field, utilizing new tools and approaches, and adapting our practices. This process helps develop the knowledge, skills, and mindsets learners need in our modern world.
