CIO Review >> Magazine >> December  2013  Education Technology Special issue

Have we arrived into the 21st century? Are present day children really equipped for this paradigm shift in education to be lifelong learners? From ikids to higher education, it is a transition in educating the digital generation of learners. It is an amalgamated effort from visionaries, education experts, policymakers and the teaching fraternity to drive in the vision and infuse necessary skills to reach out to every child.

Teacher training programs that facilitate deeper problem-based learning helps students attain higher levels of achievement. The clear edge is about staying current and continuing to absorb experiences and knowledge. The future crafting should be towards advancing the readiness of students for college, career, and global citizenship.

Every aspect of the education system right from preK-12 to post secondary and the adult learning spectrum must respond to the special skill sets required for advanced economies spear heading the global knowledge base. Be it cognitive skills, computational fluency, language skills for global connectivity or computer coding it is the competitive edge that is re-enforcing the 21 century preparedness. Collaborative learning with effective use of technology helps upgrade essential skills for a knowledge based economy.

From re designed classrooms, introduction of Web2.0 tools, gaming, MOOC's, tablets, mobile devices, laptops, simulations etc the patterns of innovation are being constantly remodeled to reach and evolve a globally competitive workforce. It is helping school systems around the world meet the demands of 21century learners and employers. Technology should be seamless and easy to use, as easy as picking up the chalk, for blended learning.

As a prelude to the final CIOReview's Education Solution and Consulting Providers 2013, our selection panel evaluated the capabilities of dozens of promising vendors which was deemed necessary in mitigating the skill gap to power the change towards digital citizenship.