Lately I [Eric Sheninger] have been pondering about what themes educational leaders should embrace in order to initiate and sustain change. Educators from all corners of the globe have discussed through blogs and Twitter (i.e #edchat) the need for a fundamental shift in how students are instructed and assessed. Although most would agree that the traditional "chalk & talk" and "sage on the stage" are sometimes needed as information dissemination techniques, these types of instruction should not be the focus of lessons. They should support a more authentic form of learning. The common vision of effective instruction now centers around student-centered, authentic learning experiences that properly integrate technology and foster critical thinking skills. Specific pedagogical strategies that come to mind include cooperative, inquiry-based, problem-based, and self-directed learning as well as differentiated instruction, assessment, and supervision. As discussed in “Shift Happens” we need to prepare today’s learners for jobs that don’t even exist yet. Is your school or institution moving in this direction?
Original Article: Innovation Through Effective Leadership - The Educators' Royal Treatment
