Educators are navigating the future of education. How can you conquer the challenges ahead?

Change is an inevitable consequence of the evolution/progress of education. Beyond embracing change, the inclusive classroom challenges teachers to monitor the progress of each learner to see how effectively their innovative techniques are transforming each student's learning. This may reveal a need to change strategies that don't work. The integration of recent technologies in the curriculum must be accompanied by practical demonstrations to help students see real world applications of what they're learning. This helps to engage learners. Anticipating future developments in education due to advances in technology can make it easier for teachers to embrace change.

In encouraging student collaborative projects that demonstrate real-world challenges, I have found it helpful to include within each group at least one student who tends to be quiet in the classroom. This has helped such students show their critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Questions like "In what ways can you apply what you've learned in this project?" and "What real-world situations does this task remind you of?”, awaken students’ creativity and stimulate their thought. Open-ended questions help students to identify and resolve challenges posed by collaborative assignments. When a teacher’s response to mistakes is encouraging, students see them as opportunities to grow, a skill that prepares them for a better future.

Leveraging technology effectively in the classroom means using it to support student learning. Successful incorporation of digital tools in the classroom should include teachers’ application of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles to create a learning environment in which all students have access to and can use digital tools to support their learning. Because teachers understand `the ethical issues of technology in education, they can teach students digital literacy that translates to successful applications of digital tools responsibly. This enables students to use online information ethically and helps them avoid dangers associated with misuse of digital platforms, even outside of school.

One thing I’ve found helpful in this area is to reach out to parents in your class or community for support. Also reach out to any community organizations that are likely to benefit from what your students are learning and accomplishing, and ask how they might help support and influence your students skills toward being employable in 5-10 years.

Learning outcomes in the future of education are at risk if students and/or educators are undergoing mental health challenges. It's important that educators prioritize their well-being and know when to initiate self-care strategies. Educators who incorporate mindfulness practices into their curriculum can help students to manage stress and improve their emotional well-being. I have often found that mental health issues with students can range from stress over an upcoming exam to concerns that require parent involvement and the care of a private mental healthcare provider. Educators who prioritize self-care are in a strong position to teach the importance of mental health to their students.