British Columbia's Core Competencies & Mobile Devices
In September 2016, students in British Columbia, grades K through to nine, began a new school year with a new curriculum. The driving focus of this change was an awareness by the BC government that that we “... live in a state of constant change…” and, as such, must develop new curricular materials that will ensure the future success of BC’s citizens. The Government recognized that today's student lives in a technology-rich environment where information is available on demand and communication is instant.
Due to this widespread adoption of technology by society, dissemination of, and access to knowledge is growing at a rapid rate. In order for students to be ready for this new technology and information-rich world, they need to develop 21st Century skills. These skills, or competencies, support what the new curriculum terms the ‘educated citizen’.
Incorporated in this new pedagogical approach were some old and established ideals; student-centered and flexible learning environments that support deeper learning.
Due to this widespread adoption of technology by society, dissemination of, and access to knowledge is growing at a rapid rate. In order for students to be ready for this new technology and information-rich world, they need to develop 21st Century skills. These skills, or competencies, support what the new curriculum terms the ‘educated citizen’.
Incorporated in this new pedagogical approach were some old and established ideals; student-centered and flexible learning environments that support deeper learning.
Communication, Creative Thinking, Critical Thinking, Positive Personal & Cultural Identity, Personal Awareness & Responsibility and Social Responsibility have been identified as the six Core Competencies. Their self-assessment, and reporting by students, is part of the new curriculum. Mobile devices are well positioned to not only deliver teachable materials but also report the attainment of outcomes by students.
British Columbia's Core Competencies
The design process undertaken by the British Columbia Provincial Government saw consultation with educators and the public. The result was the recognition of six core competencies. These competencies are sets of "...intellectual, personal, and social and emotional proficiencies..." developed to engage students in their own learning, both within the current education system and as life-long learning. |
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Self Reporting of Core Competencies Using Mobile Devices
The redesign of the British Columbia curriculum extends beyond content changes. It includes a redesign of assessment so that it reflects the modern education system. One element of the redesign is the inclusion of students self-reporting on the new Core Competencies. Self-reporting was introduced with the implementation of the new curriculum grades K-9 in the 2016/17 school year. Mobile devices can be used in the self-reporting of Core Competencies. |