Learning to Teach Global Competencies in a Transforming Digital World

Abstract

In our globally connected, ever-changing society, the ability to adapt to new environments and technologies can greatly enhance success. In Canada,“21st century skills” are being prioritized in the education system so that young children can develop skills to thrive in our technologically advanced world. However, current teaching practices do not always appear to include 21st century skills in the curriculum. This chapter seeks to examine Canadian university Bachelor of Education programs to gather information about where, and how often, 21st century skill training occurs in pre-service teacher education. A keyword search was conducted on program and course descriptions from 45 Canadian university websites to determine where 21st century skill terminology was present. Next, a more in-depth examination of one specific teacher education program in a consecutive, pre-service program in a mid-sized urban centre in Ontario was conducted. Recommendations are discussed for pre-service education in support of integrating 21st century skills in teacher preparation.