Characteristics of a 21st-Century Teacher
What does a 21st-century teacher look like to you. Beyond the obvious of being up-to-date on the latest
in technology, they can have the characteristics of a facilitator, a contributor, or even an integrator. Here are six
more key characteristics of a 21st-century educator.
Adaptive
They are able to adapt to whatever comes their way. Being a teacher in today's world means that you have to adapt to
the ever-changing tools and changes that are being implemented in the schools. Smart boards are replacing chalkboards and
tablets are replacing textbooks and a 21st-century teacher needs to be okay with that. The 21st century teacher is able to look
at their practice and adapt based on the needs of their students. They must be able to adapt their teaching style to include
different modes of learning, adapt when a lesson fails, and adapt to new technology. They must be able to adapt to the
curriculum and the requirements and be able to use their imagination to teach in creative ways.
Lifelong Learners
The 21st century teacher is a lifelong learner. They don’t just expect their students to be lifelong learners, but they
too stay current and on top of what’s new in education. Even though they may still use the same lesson plan from years
before, they know how to change it to keep up-to-date with what is current. A great teacher will not only embrace
technology, but be willing to learn more about it.
A Master of Technology
A 21st century teacher is able to adapt to whatever comes their way. Teaching is a career that has pretty much stayed the
same over the past few decades. The tools have changed over the years (Smart boards have replaced chalkboards, tablets
have replaced textbooks) but the practice has not. The 21st century teacher is able to look at their practice and adapt based
on the needs of their students. They must be able to adapt their teaching style to include different modes of learning, adapt
when a lesson fails, and adapt to new technology. They must be able to adapt to the curriculum and the requirements and
be able to use their imagination to teach in creative ways.
Know How to Collaborate
An effective 21st-century educator must be able to collaborate and work well within a team. Over the past decade, this
important skill has grown quite rapidly in schools. Learning is deemed to be more effective when you can share your ideas and
knowledge with others. Sharing your expertise and experience, and communicating and learning from others is an important
part of the learning and teaching process.
Forward Thinking
An effective 21st-century educator thinks about their students' future and is aware of the career opportunities that may arise
from them. They are always planning to ensure that no child gets left behind so they focus on preparing today's children for
what's to come in the future.
Advocates for the Profession
They are an advocate not only for their students but their profession. Today's teachers are being watched with a close eye
because of all of the changes in curriculum and the Common Core. Instead of sitting back, a 21st-century teacher takes a stand
for their themselves and their profession. They pay close attention to what is going on in education and they address these issues
head-on. They also advocate for their students. Today's classrooms are filled with children who need someone to look out for
them, give them advice, encouragement, and a listening ear. Effective teachers share their knowledge and expertise and act as a
role model for their students.
