Head-Royce Principles of Good Practice for 21st Century Teaching and Learning



As we move firmly into the second decade of the 21st Century, mindful of the lessons of the past, we must clearly define the best knowledge, skills and attitudes students need to be productive members of our global society. As educators, we must encourage students' intellectual curiosity and inspire them to combine academic research and experimentation along with exploration of interdisciplinary connections in order to become leaders in a rapidly changing world. More than ever, willingness to venture into uncharted intellectual territory must be rewarded along with mastery of content.


Based on research by key educators and scientists of our day we believe students need to develop the following 21st century skills as part of their Head-Royce education:

                     

•Critical thinking (head): strong analytical and communication skills that lead to real world problem solving;
    

•Creativity (hands): the ability to respond to new challenges by prior knowledge, observation, and imagination;

•Interpersonal skills (heart): understanding oneself and one's cultural identity, and development of a strong moral compass, collaborative abilities and leadership skills;    

•Global competencies (world): linguistic ability, multicultural understanding and an aptitude for contributing to an interconnected world;

•A sense of purpose (vision): personal investment in both our local community and larger world including a dedication to civic purpose and ecological sustainability.



Though many of these ideas themselves may not be unique to this century, the way we need to apply them is unique and may challenge current pedagogical practices but allow both students and teachers to take advantage of an emerging wealth of new resources.



As Head-Royce School educators, we are dedicated to cultivating the above skills in our students and partnering with them to educate them for "their future not our past" (Pink). We will work together to stay abreast of the latest research on learning and the brain, understand nuances of student emotional development, learn and use digital technology, and continue to explore best practices for teaching and learning. Ultimately, we will create classrooms that encourage students to participate in experiential learning, take risks, view the world through multiple lenses, utilize innovative tools, and demonstrate proficiencies through a range of assessments that include real world problems and performances.

Developed by the Department Council
 12/16/09



Approved by the Curriculum Committee
 1/6/10



Thanks to the following educational researchers for their ideas: Yong  Zhao, Tony Wagner, Paul Chapman, Patrick Bassett, Howard Gardner and the Partnership for 21st Century Skills.