ARTICLE: IDEO'S Thoughts on 21st Century Learning

http://www.metropolismag.com/story/20090218/ideos-ten-tips-for-creating-a-21st-century-classroom-experience

Originally featured in last February's issues of Metropolis magazine, this article highlights IDEO's 10 core beliefs for learning in the 21st century. While the list is general and sheds little light on how one would actually implement such measures, it is, nonetheless, very thought provoking.

We particularly like the fact that they not only acknowledge the need to strengthen core skills (math, reading, science), but also advocate adding more emphasis on the so-called "soft skills" (creativity, collaboration, communication, empathy, and adaptability). In fact, their 3rd point calls for end of the term "soft skills" altogether. We agree, especially since such skills are now required by many employers. The trick, as they mention in their final point, is figuring out how to measure (and justify the value of) these skills in a world focused on hard numbers and right/wrong answers...