Edutopia 1

The article "15 Characteristics of a 21st Century Teacher" is a reflection from an educator on the differences in teaching now versus the past. She describes how a 21st century teacher differs extremely from a 19th or 20th century educator. Technology plays a major role in the education styles of our time. With instant access to information and new, innovative ways to give assignments, teachers today need to possess a certain set of skills and knowledge to be effective when integrating technology in the school day. The 15 characteristics described in this article are essential to running a productive, educational classroom centered around technology.

• An important fact that was brought to light in this article was the importance of students being proud of their work. Technology offers a platform for students to post their work for the world to see. This provides a sense of accomplishment rather than a turning in a paper just to be graded and thrown away. 
• This article also points out how students should be taught that technology isn't a distraction but rather a tool for discovering new information. 
• Technology is completely replacing paper in the classroom. Today teachers should be teaching students how to formulate questions, do research, contact experts, and overall become more independent when it comes to their education.

These characteristics outline essential tools 21st century teacher need in order to teach today's kids. With this information, I will definitely ensure that as an educator I am doing everything possible to be able to give my students all the resources available to them. Through technology, we can make learning not only easier but more attractive to students. Personalized learning is the future and technology is paving the way for teachers to give their students the individual attention they need.

15 Characteristics of a 21st Century Teacher