It is easy to denigrate traditional teaching techniques in our high tech world where all of the talk is focused on the global economy and 21st century learning skills. When we can set up video conferences with students from the other side of the world, people wonder why we would spend our time on multiplication tables or on reading novels written decades ago. We make the assumption that some of the vestiges of our schooling memories will not cut it in the 21st century classroom where skills such as critical thinking, problem solving, cooperative learning and the ability to empathize with different cultures and people, are stressed. While education must change to adjust to the new demands of our changing world, some skills are timeless and excellent educators have been stressing them for years. Current research is also showing that some mundane practices, such as rudimentary math calculations, may engage more of the brain than complex video games. It is also showing that sustained concentration on a difficult task allows us the ability to focus and problem solve better than does flittering from task-to-task.

The brain is still a largely undiscovered country. Scientists are only beginning to unlock the secrets of how our brains function and develop. Recent research is showing, however, that certain activities can stimulate the brain to grow and prosper, very much like exercise can help our muscles to develop. We are also learning that sustained reading, solving math equations and stimulating conversation can be much more effective for the development of brain “fitness” than other 21st century activities.

The implications for educators are interesting. We must be certain to use the traditional, somewhat more mundane practices when they will help to develop the brain and mental fitness. This might not always be a popular or entertaining choice, but it is one that will benefit the student in the long run. We must also interject the 21st century applications to stimulate higher order thinking and problem solving skills.

My high school history teacher liked to remind us that the only constant in history is change. The trick for educators is embracing the changes that are beneficial because not all change is for the better. We also need to maintain those practices, no matter how difficult they may seem, that develop the fundamental skills needed to allow higher order thought and expression. This is not an easy task. At Lower Canada College professional development, the sharing of ideas and discussions about current research are key elements of our culture. It is only through life-long learning that we can assure that we are keeping the intellectual needs of our students at the forefront. —Patrick Peotto, Assistant Head – Academics