P21, the Partnership for 21st Century Learning, released an online free resource for parents to help prepare kids for the future of citizenship, learning and the workforce. The National PTA served as a family engagement advisor for the project.
To be successful today, students must be civically and digitally literate, globally competent and proficient in the 4Cs-critical thinking and problem solving; communication; collaboration; and creativity and innovation. Yet, according to recent data on civics education and global citizenship, more than one-third of 12th grade students scored below basic in civics and fewer than one-third reported they use their learning for real-world problem solving.
Education today takes place both inside and outside the classroom. The Parents’ Guide to 21st Century Learning and Citizenship reinforces the idea that preparing children for 21st century learning and citizenship is a team effort-at home, at school, within the community and throughout the day.
“National PTA is pleased to collaborate with P21 and bring the Parents’ Guide to 21st Century Learning and Citizenship to families nationwide to empower them with tools to support the development of 21st century skills and 21st century citizenship among youth,” said Otha Thornton, president of National PTA. “Today’s workplace requires employees to think on their feet, make decisions and solve problems. It is essential that our nation’s youth are prepared with the critical thinking and reasoning skills necessary to excel in their studies and the workforce in order to thrive in a global economy.”
The Parents’ Guide–which includes an overview document, tip sheet and real-world examples–will support parents and communities as they prepare young people to be productive citizens, and ensure they have the skills, knowledge and mindsets they need to be successful in college, career and life.
Free download available at http://onevoice.pta.org/new-parents-guide-to-21st-century-learning-and-citizenship/
