You are probably up to speed on the major trends in education, but are you aware of the “megatrends” shaping the world?

Let’s break down both topics and see where we can find some common ground.

TRENDS IN EDUCATION

There are several opposing views on these from a variety of respected sources. Here is a list of what we can all agree on and I will break them down into 2 categories:

What We Teach

• Technology literacy, data science, and programming
• Global Citizenship, emotional intelligence, ethics, and diversity
• Innovation and problem-solving
• Effective professional development

How We Teach

• Teacher as a facilitator using digital resources
• Personalized, self-paced, and self-directed learning
• Collaborative, project-based, problem-based learning
• Bite-sized learning with immersive environments using IR, VR, and Makerspace
• Life long learning

Nice list and all very attainable.

THE 8 MEGATRENDS

These eight building blocks are emerging as the keys to future innovation and powering the convergence that is shaping our world.

• Artificial Intelligence
• Augmented Reality
• Blockchain
• Drones
• Internet of Things
• Robotics
• Virtual Reality
• 3D Printing

These building blocks are impacting many areas of our lives including this blog post you are reading.

I used an AI tool called “OpenAI” to learn what types of topics would work best to get your attention.

Of course, I created and typed out the copy but the AI gave me the outline to use.

Is that fascinating to you? It should be because that I just one of the 8 megatrend tools that your students will have access to.

In fact, there is a concern that students may use these tools to “game the system”.

Just like I used a Word Processor 25 years ago to make my 1-page reports 3-page reports by doubling the line spacing, shrinking the margins, and increasing the font size, our students will take advantage of these tools unless we teach and guide them correctly.

My message is simple, let’s not fear these innovations. Let’s discuss them as professional educators and make a plan that is educationally sound and be in front of the curve.

Are you with me?

Sources:

Want further information on the Trends in Education? Visit Forbes.com and read Bernard Marr’s article, “The 2 Biggest Future Trends In Education”

Want more information on the 8 Megatrends? Visit www.pwc.com and read “Eight emerging technologies and six convergence themes you need to know about”