The face of education has changed dramatically over the past ten years or so. Teachers across the country are working hard to equip children with the skills needed for success in the 21^st century world. In addition to instilling the students the flexibility to readily adapt to changing technologies, teacher must foster learning environments that encourage critical thinking, creativity, problem – solving, communication, collaboration, global – awareness and social responsibility. Six strategies that early child hood teachers are currently using in classrooms to prepare kids for the boundless future ahead.

INTEGRATED TECHNOLOGY

                Today’s kids were born in the age of the internet. To connect with these kids, teachers must learn to speak their language and become conversant with the technology that comes so naturally to the young. Integrating technology means tapping into student’s interests and strengthening their technical skills, all while providing enriching learning opportunities.

COOPERATIVE LEARNING STRUCTURES

        Instruction has had its day. Effective teachers are increasingly using a student – centered approach. Cooperating learning sparks engagement in classrooms by encouraging interaction among the students then selves. The teacher, rather than calling on one student at a time, allows children to discuss class materials with buddies or in groups, thus maximizing the level of participation. The students work just as hard as the teachers. No longer a one-man show, the teacher’s role become that of a facilitator instead. In turn, leads to higher achievement, whil3e promoting both team and class building.

DIFFERENTIATED INSTRUCTION

        There are three main learning styles: Visual, auditory and Kinesthetic. Cognitive learning styles of children describes the characteristics of these learners as well as the types of activities in which they best thrive. Teachers can also differentiate by matching assignments to readiness levels offering appropriate intervention or extension activities as required. Offering choices is an excellent motivator for kids. Small group work is one of the most effective ways to meet the needs of diverse learners in large class settings.

GOAL SETTING

        Involving children in the goal – setting process is an excellent way to encourage them to take ownership of their learning. In the early stages, goal setting needs to be done in very clear and simplistic way. Teacher can further facilitate goal setting through the use of organizers, anchor charts and similar aids. In general, helping children reach their goals calls for teachers to provide specific, frequent feedback as well as ample time for self – reflection.

CROSS – CURRICULUM TEACHING

        The traditional teaching of subjects in isolation, teaching multiple subjects simultaneously can help students go much deeper in learning concepts and skills. This approach asks more from the teacher. Project based or theme based learning involves children carrying out a project that ends up with a concrete result of some kind. These methods are not only fun, they are highly motivating for children and encourage collaboration, as well.

ASSESSMENT FOR LEARNING

Assessment for learning, or formative Assessment, is a date – gathering process used by teachers to help them customize instruction to match student’s needs. Teachers can monitor how the children are learning as they teach, using observations, questioning, strategies, class discussions, learning logs, peer assessments, Self – assessments and other methods. These ongoing assessments allow teachers to keep their fingers on the pulse of the classroom to ensure that students are learning.