A wicked problem is complex and unique and not completely understood until the formulation of a solution that could be either right or wrong but could be viewed as a best practice answer, is created. The New Media Consortium (NMC) has defined wicked problems as “issues that are extremely difficult and even seemingly impossible to solve because of the complex or ever-changing environments in which they arise” (p. 1).
In today’s educational society, the instructional systems that are in place are working their way to becoming outdated or obsolete, meaning the tools and techniques are being used are no longer effective to 21st Century learners. In a 21st Century education, textbooks are becoming a part of the archives and the integration of technology is taking their place. Unfortunately, technology is changing so rapidly that the education system cannot catch up. Due to costs and budget cuts schools are not able to stay current, therefore forcing the education system and the teacher to become more creative in their instructional approach through re-purposing their materials and technology.
The Traditional Classroom
“What are schools for….why are we sending kids to school in the first place?”(Berger, pg. 48)
The traditional classroom has its origin based in a time where lecture, and occasionally the printed word, helped transfer knowledge. Tradition would lead to the belief that a successful classroom design features one educator speaking in front of the classroom to a group of eager students ready to memorize facts and providing the steps to solve problems. In this scenario, students are essentially trained to be obedient and utilize route memorization in life instead of creative questioning and problem-solving skills to achieve understanding.
Berger explains in his 2014 book, A More Beautiful Question, that it is this lack of questioning that develops as we grow that leads to a lack of creativity in the world. Berger’s case is that questioning can, and does, lead to significant changes in the world. However, Berger discusses the unsettling fact that at the ripe age of four years is an average person’s “questioning peak” (Berger, 2014, pg. 4). The career skill set for 21st Century learners is rapidly changing. Employers are actively seeking individuals who are prepared to question the standards, and be able to collaborate and creatively problem solve. Berger goes on to mention that innovative minds have the ability to question the standards of the world.
Teacher-Centered Vs. Student-Centered Learning
The traditional classroom does not effectively prepare students to obtain 21st Century skills. When classrooms are teacher-centered, students are forced to listen and memorize instead of question and explore. Within the teacher-centered classroom, an educator plans instructions, makes lessons, adapts material to every student, and monitors data on student learning (Grossman). The teacher resembles a manager or boss and the student resembles an employee working a mindless job.
Blended teaching (Student-centered learning) introduces information with guidance instead of answers allowing students to build upon their exploratory skills. The act of transforming the educator into that of a mentor also shifts the role of the student to one that questions instead of one that patiently awaits the answer.
Exploring and the Internet
New technology leads to new design. The way of oral tradition is shifting to that of internet forums, blogs and websites. The internet provides more information than one person could recite and the unique the ability to see the world from varying viewpoints and perspectives. With this information at the click of a button, students are able to access information faster and more effectively than with traditional means through lectures and literature.
Collaboration and Authentic Learning
“Collaborative learning is increasingly materializing in curricula and classroom activities, but K-12 leaders see this midterm development as an opportunity to evolve school philosophies, embedding the spirit of teamwork and cooperation deeply into school cultures.” (http://cdn.nmc.org/media/2016-nmc-cosn-horizon-report-k12-EN.pdf) An authentic learning experience is one where it mimics real-world situations. This learning experience will provide students with a memorable experience that will solidify knowledge faster and stronger when compared to traditional classroom pedagogy. It is through collaborative learning where students become more self-sufficient and independent in the classroom setting.
Classroom Redesign
Student engagement is not only altered by the way information is presented but also by the environment. “The layout of a classroom, along with the furniture and technology it contains, has proven to impact student engagement and performance.” (http://cdn.nmc.org/media/2016-nmc-cosn-horizon-report-k12-EN.pdf) The environment affects students and can influence students to engage more with each other if allowed. When students can easily move around the classroom and interact with each other, they are more apt to collaborate. This will lead to a sense of community and an overall connection to the environment and learning experience.
References
Berger, W. (2014). A more beautiful question: The power of inquiry to spark breakthrough ideas. New York: Bloomsbury.
Grossman, P., Hammerness, K., & McDonald, M. (2009). Redefining teaching, re-imagining teacher education, Teachers and Teaching, 15(2), 273-289. doi:10.1080/1350600902875340
NMC/CoSN Horizon Report: 2016 K-12 Edition [PDF]. Accessed February 17, 2017. (http://cdn.nmc.org/media/2016-nmc-cosn-horizon-report-k12-EN.pdf)
NMC Communique. Accessed February 17, 2017. (http://www.nmc.org/news/communique-2013-future-education-summit)
