David Black posted on December 21, 2006 06:32
In my mind, there were four key points or skills which the article identified for the 21st century. Here was the first point:
Students will need to be more sensitive to foreign cultures since it is far more likely that they will be collaborating with people around the world on work-related projects. In addition, learning another language will be more important than ever before.
Where do I believe Lutheran schools fit with these ideas? I think they certainly fit with the mission of our schools. Sensitivity to other people does not mean adopting their every idea. Certainly we want to clearly share the blessings of knowing Christ as opposed to the many false doctrines of the world. However, it will be our ability to work effectively with others in this world that will open doors for sharing the Gospel message. Therefore, providing exposure to those of other cultures, as well as providing opportunities for the study of another language, are steps of which each of us should be striving toward.
Not every school will have someone qualified to teach another language. However, technology opens the door for learning in different ways. In our school we use the Rosetta Stone software to supplement Spanish instruction.
I've written about collaboration skills in previous posts, so I'll forgo a detailed analysis on that topic for now. Those of you who follow this blog know that I am a firm believer in working to develop collaboration skills for our students now to better prepare them for their future. What a blessing it is to be able to work with other people across the miles!
Coming soon -- an analysis on Key Skill Two. That may come quicker if I still can't get out of my driveway!