Technology and 21st Century Skills

Much is made these days of "21st century learners", "21st century skills", and "21st century classrooms". Invariably, technology -- and the use of technology in classrooms by students and teachers -- is an assumed component of these 21st century phenomena. But does technology really make a difference in teaching and learning? Has the use of technology in classrooms led to improved teaching and learning? Is a 21st century education that different from a 20th century education?

Post your thoughts on the role and importance of technology in K-12 education. If you would like a preview of our speaker for next week, Adam Garry, check out this interview he did recently. Adam is the Manager of Global Professional Learning for Dell, and will be giving you his take on what a 21st century education means when we meet next.

Professional Development

Think about a really bad professional development experience you had, and a really good professional development experience. What made the good one "good" and the bad one "bad"? What steps can principals take to ensure that professional development is "good" and actually has a positive impact on teacher effectiveness?