Let's Talk 21st Century Learners

These messages from the students of the Robin Hood School in Birmingham has a strong impact. The signs that the students hold up give the impression that this they represent the voice of the voiceless. The video is short enough to just introduce the topic of 21st Century Learners but the messages are strong enough to spark your interest and begin the thinking process. The technology seen in the video is a bit out-dated but the point still holds true for today's learners.

A fast-paced video to demonstrate learning in a fast-paced digital world. Information is presented in an eye-catching, thought-provoking, and inspirational presentation that will easily getting anyone thinking about how today's students need a change in their education.

One of the best videos I have seen to promote why the traditional classroom isn't working. Seeing the signs of these college students helps remind us that technology should be integrated as soon as possible before our future college students waste time and money.

This video is very similar to the one on this list titled "Engage Me!" Students hold up signs telling them how they would like to learn. The video is a little longer and does feature some statistics that might be out-dated since this video was made in 2007. However, if this information was true then, then it's probably even bigger and more dynamic now.

Though this video is a bit long for showing at the beginning of a meeting (7:42), it does make you think about how we should be teaching today's digital learners. The information does sometimes move a little quick and it is very simplistic but sometimes less is more.

Probably the most professional looking video on this list, the MacArthur Foundation not only discusses the need of technology in the classroom but they also mention that technology isn't always needed. This video discusses the use of technology as a learning tool to prepare students for their future but also to expand creativity.

The greatest thing this video does happens in the first few seconds when they address the fact that although the times have changed, the classroom remains the same. The rest of the video continues that thought to explain how students have changed and our instruction needs to change with them. The downside of this video is the production. The music is very repetitive and their are just too many stock photos. Production value may reduce the interest in watching this video but the information is terrific for leading a conversation about 21st Century Learning.

This video does give a brief introduction to 21st century literacy however it is not very appealing to watch. The production value is similar to giving a PowerPoint presentation.

The longest video on the list also has the feeling of a company training video. The material presented is very good information however it is presented in a way that is too professional. It feels very much like a video you would actually watch in school.