CREATING A NEW EDUCATIONAL MODEL

Creating A New Educational Model

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to introduce a model for preparing young people to live in a global society. This paper discusses the need for a new approach to education that transcends subject disciplines and institutional boundaries by taking a global perspective; it provides a background of previous curriculum ideas, presents a multi-dimensional model of educating for the future, and opens a dialogue on the implications for educators and policy makers. The curriculum model for educating future citizens starts with a foundation of academics (contextual math and science), vocational skills and technological literacy, and process skills, which include system thinking and problem solving. The second level of the model consists of the study of world history and geography, and the language and culture of other countries. The third layer of the curriculum is altruism for people, the planet, and the future. The rationale for each component and specific teaching strategies are also presented. As civilization makes the transition from the industrial era to one of sustainability, educational leaders around the globe ought to implement a learning system that prepares its young people for life in a unified society. This paper provides a starting point to explore what skills and concepts students should be studying to lead the future. The curriculum model provides an explicit outline of some of the competencies that will likely be required for whatever world scenario emerges.

Abstract2

Introduction4

Rationale4

The curriculum model5

Strategies5

Emerging Issues In Restructuring And Reforming Schools6

Applied Math and Science6

Technical skills7

Process skills8

International education9

Parent & Community Involvement9

Benefits Of The New Global Model10

Language and Culture10

Challenges11

Conclusion12

References14

Creating A New Educational Model

Introduction

The goal of education is to prepare young people for the adult working world, but what kind of world should they be prepared for? Since technology and globalization are transforming the world into one, interconnected society, a new set of skills - in fact, a new education - is needed for future citizens. Because global change has reached a tipping point, creating anxiety over which direction the world will take, the education of future citizens is of critical importance and will certainly be a significant part of the imminent world society. Although the pace and scope of change makes predicting the future complex and uncertain, there are foundation skills and process skills that will be needed for whatever scenario comes about. Meeting these challenges is no doubt a complicated and long-term process, which puts educators in a unique position to influence the next generation that will assume much of the responsibility. This concept paper adds to that discussion by introducing a preliminary curriculum model.

Rationale

The current need to improve education is based on the larger paradigm change of post-industrialization, which emphasizes big picture and long-term thinking. Using the scientific method, subjects such as economics, ecology, and society are usually studied as separate systems, rarely focusing on the feedbacks and linkages between them. Instead of isolated, reductionist thinking, the new paradigm requires dynamic, interrelated analyses. Within systems there are countless variables and interaction effects, fast ...