The twenty-first century has brought about a rapid shift in the educational field, requiring students to assume new roles and responsibilities. The twenty-first century has been a great opportunity for all learners as it is an era of rapid technological advancement. Learners are no longer inactive recipients of knowledge in this era of abundant information; rather, they are active participants in their own learning journey. This article explores the changing role of learners in the twenty-first century and focuses on the crucial responsibilities they bear in molding their personal development and contributing to society.
The days of passively assimilating information from traditional textbooks and lectures are long gone. Instead, learners are expected to participate actively in the learning process in the twenty-first century. They must assume responsibility for their education, pose questions, seek answers, and participate actively in group discussions and activities. For example, a learner needs to discuss with teachers, friends, and family members in order to expand his/her understanding of the outside world filled with new technologies.
For me, I prefer to form study groups in which we can share ideas, and collaborate on projects given by teachers. This experience taught me the importance of collaboration and the significance of collective intelligence. On the other hand, students of this era intend to seek creative and critical appreciation skills instead of pursuing immediate answers to the questions.
I actually want to study with several alternatives, as a result, I can see things in different ways and request teachers and practitioners not to be dependent on only one option or the answers given in the books. I believe the students are themselves critical thinkers, and problem solvers as they are interested in demonstrating the importance of critical thinking in solving real-world problems. They need to see things more practically than theoretically. They need to develop their way of thinking because theoretical knowledge is not enough.
Learning is not limited to formal education in the twenty-first century; it extends beyond the classroom walls. Learners must adopt a growth perspective and embrace lifelong learning opportunities. To expand my skill set, I look for reading materials related to my curriculum and general knowledge on the Internet, discuss with parents, watch useful YouTube videos, television programs, draw and sketch pictures, and read newspapers. These activities develop my level of confidence and dedication to continuous learning to adapt to changing conditions.
To expand my skill set, I look for reading materials related to my curriculum and general knowledge on the Internet, discuss with parents, watch useful YouTube videos, television programs, draw and sketch pictures, and read newspapers.
Learners must understand the significance of digital citizenship given the prevalence of technology and the Internet. We should be aware of the ethical use of information, respect the privacy of others, and combat misinformation. I have witnessed the negative effects of misinformation during sensitive social issues, and social networks play an important role in our lives. As a responsible digital citizen, I share only verifiable and accurate data. Before sharing any content, I verify its accuracy and encourage my peers to do the same because everyone has their boundaries.
In a globalized world, students interact with multiple cultures and points of view growing up. In a world that is diverse and interconnected, students interact with peers of diverse cultural backgrounds. To flourish in such a setting, it is essential to cultivate cultural competence and empathy. As a student from Surkhet, Nepal, I have had the opportunity to study and appreciate a variety of cultures and traditions. This experience has taught me the significance of cultural sensitivity and empathy for others.
We should be aware of the ethical use of information, respect the privacy of others, and combat misinformation.
Learners must now be active, critical, and innovative in the twenty-first century. To thrive in an interconnected world, they must also embody ethical digital citizenship and cultivate cultural competence. I have realized the transformative potential of assuming these duties and responsibilities through my own experiences. By accepting and acting upon these responsibilities, we not only promote our own personal development but also positively impact society. I recognize the transformative potential of assuming these responsibilities as a young student and I am anxious to continue making a positive impact on myself and the world.
(Briyanka is an eighth grader at Children’s Paradise School, Surkhet, Nepal)
(Nepalkhabar requests students to send in their articles on any issues of their interest. The article should be around 500 to 700 words in English and sent via [email protected]. We will select, edit and duly publish them in blog section.)
