What Students Need in the 21st Century

5 years into the 21st century and the needs of our students are ever changing. The ideals and practices that I learned when I was in elementary school, although generally similar, were less intense then they are now. Learning to use a computer was not even an option for me. Now, it is an essential skill for students of all ages. Living in a society where we can no longer live without technology we need to educate children not only how to use it but how to protect themselves while using it. Although computers can be infinitely helpful, they can also cause many problem. It is important for children to understand both ends of the spectrum.

Another skill that students receive that will be helpful in the 21st century are multiple language skills and knowledge of other cultures. Living in the melting pot that the United States is makes this an important skill for children to learn. Although learning English is very important living in this country, student should have exposure to other languages. They should learn to appreciate the cultural diversity as well as build an understanding of other people they will interact with on a daily basis.

I also feel it is important, unfortunately, that we need make children aware of the evils that are going on in the world. Although this is not a new issue, it has hit home moreso over the last few years. Children need to be aware of their surrounding and know how to protect themselves.