As an educator for more than 30 years, I know it isn’t just a profession. And it’s certainly not something you just happen to fall into. It’s a choice you make from a desire to make a difference. Whether that takes shape in the form of impacting students in a classroom or equipping your staff with the best possible resources, the continuous effort educators put into their work is extraordinary.
Today, we stand on the cusp of exciting change for the future of education, and I want to share how we, as educators and learners, can seize this moment.
How the education landscape has changed
Let’s first break down how classrooms have changed in the last decade. We’ve seen some changes arise over time, and others seemingly overnight, including:
- Integration of technology
- Personalized learning
- Creating engagement and connection in the classroom
- Access to nearly endless information
- Sustainability in the school system
With all of these changes shaping our current teaching environment, it’s no wonder school districts and educators are looking for resources to navigate this new terrain.
The digital leap forward
If there’s anything the past few years have taught us, technology is our steadfast companion. It has swooped into the classroom, opening a Pandora’s box of digital tools that have forever altered the teaching landscape.
Notably, a survey conducted by Promethean in 2019 highlighted that 82% of teachers believe tech is a vital part of personalized learning experiences. Imagine what that percentage must be now!
The integration of ed-tech tools is set to rise, and it’s not just about the gadgets. It’s about enhancing our connectivity as educators and students, broadening access to information, and making learning a truly immersive experience for all.
Facilitating connection through technology
Speaking of connectivity, the digital landscape allows for an interconnected education system like never before.
Distance learning platforms have enabled students from different geographical locations to learn together. Here at ASU Prep Global, we offer course licensing that lets school districts nationwide adopt our latest and most innovative curriculum designed by online learning experts. This ensures a high-quality learning experience, no matter where the classroom is.
Even teacher professional development is transforming with online workshops, webinars, and collaborative learning communities. Teachers are no longer isolated to their school or district; they’re part of a global community, sharing innovative pedagogies and inspiring one another.
The rise of personalized learning
It’s safe to say the cookie-cutter approach to education is pretty outdated. Personalized learning has taken its place and it’s here to stay.
With more tools to track individual progress and adapt to a learner’s pace, the ‘one-size-fits-all’ model is being replaced with a tailored educational experience. School districts also welcome this shift by encouraging their staff to seek professional development.
Just consider the stats we’ve seen emerge. According to the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, personalized learning has been linked to significant improvements in reading and math scores. By focusing on each student’s unique learning needs, we’re not just teaching—we’re empowering.
Whole-person education
Whole-person education is all about nurturing every aspect of a student’s development—mind, body, and spirit—so they can grow into well-rounded, thoughtful, and engaged individuals.
In my opinion, we’ve seen hints of this, but I believe it will only continue to rise in the coming years. We’re looking at an educational paradigm that nurtures the whole person even beyond academics.
Why does it matter?
Academic proficiency is undeniably essential, but so is the emotional and mental well-being of students. Research highlights that supporting students’ emotional and mental health needs not only enhances academic achievement but also fosters positive behaviors and reduces distress. Building a strong sense of community and connection among students is key to their overall success and well-being.
What does this mean for us as educators?
It means our role is expanding. We’re no longer just subject experts; we’re coaches, mentors, and guides on this holistic approach to learning.
Inclusivity and access
A bright future for education is an inclusive one. Efforts to build more equitable education systems are gaining momentum every day.
We’re talking about a learning environment where every student, regardless of background, has the tools and support necessary to thrive.
Technology plays a pivotal role
Assistive technologies, open educational resources, and inclusive curriculum level the playing field. They enable us to tailor learning experiences to individual needs, breaking down barriers historically hindering some students from reaching their full potential. Students who want to learn have more options than ever at their disposal.
However, there’s still more we as educators can do, like creating a welcoming classroom environment, tailoring lessons to meet different learning styles, and ensuring all students have access to the resources they need.
Continuous teacher support
Our educators are the engines that drive educational transformation. By investing in ongoing professional development, we ensure that we’re ready to adapt to the continually shifting educational landscape.
Supporting teachers translates to better learning outcomes for students. It’s a ripple effect. Well-trained, fulfilled, and motivated teachers are more likely to foster dynamic and engaging learning environments.
We’ve also seen a correlation between educators who continue on a lifelong path of learning and student achievement. The teachers who better themselves outside of the classroom can relate to some of the struggles students face. They tend to have more empathy and trust among their students.
Professional development can elevate teaching methods to new heights. Whether learning about innovative approaches or collaborating with fellow educators, the tools and practices gained from these experiences can be invaluable in the classroom. The benefits of professional development are truly transformative.
What’s next for education?
I believe the future of education will be transformed by innovative school models that offer personalized and flexible learning environments.
Advanced technology, such as virtual reality and AI-driven tutoring, will make education more interactive and engaging.
Students will be encouraged to pursue their passions earlier, using online resources to delve into areas of interest and develop specialized skills. We will see an increase in career exploration programs, providing students with hands-on experiences and insights into various professions. These trends will collectively aim to create a more adaptable, real-world-aligned education system that empowers students to reach their fullest potential.
Teachers will evolve beyond their traditional roles as mere instructors. They will become mentors, offering guidance and wisdom, guides, leading students through the complexities of learning, and coaches, encouraging and motivating students to achieve their fullest potential. This transformation will enrich the learning experience, making it more personalized and impactful for each student.
College won’t be a distant dream; it will be an integral part of a student’s educational journey. From as early as kindergarten, students will be able to start on a college pathway. High school students can take college classes and earn concurrent credit. Or students can choose to seamlessly transition straight into meaningful work with alternative pathways and direct-to-career programs. Because the future of education means ensuring every student finds their unique path to success.
Technology will be more than a tool; it will be a companion. Student dashboards will reveal the skills each student needs to master, and teachers will work alongside to help set individual goals.
At ASU Prep Global, we’re poised to help educators navigate and embrace these changes to positively impact their classrooms and the lives of their students.
If you dream it you can achieve it.
To my fellow educators, I encourage you to remain informed yet imaginative, structured yet flexible, and above all, forward-thinking. Because the future of education isn’t just bright; it’s limitless. The tools to enhance learning are within our reach, the strategies for student engagement are evolving, and our collective will is stronger than ever.
Christy Cleugh, Ed.D.
Director of National Partnerships, ASU Prep Global
In her 30+ years as an educator, Christy has built a passion for personalized learning as well as extensive experience in both traditional and online education. She’s passionate about working collaboratively with school leaders and partners to create customized solutions for districts. Working consultatively with school leaders enables Christy to utilize her extensive background in teaching, learning, and leading in both brick and mortar and online/hybrid environments.
Partner with us
At ASU Prep Global, we work with forward-thinking schools and districts to build new education models where students shape their destinies, teachers guide their passions, and technology empowers personalized learning. We’re always seeking to partner with innovative school leaders like you. To learn more about our programs and pilot opportunities, please email me at ccleugh@asu.edu. I look forward to connecting!