If the schools of today seem vastly different from the school you attended, you’re right.  The education world has changed rapidly in the past few years- leaving some people to wonder what is changing. Here is a run -down on some of the biggest ways schools have changed since you were a kid.

Focus on early learning

Skills that used to be taught in first or second grade have moved to kindergarten or even 4K. Three year old preschool and four year old kindergarten have become the norm. In the past, students learned letters and letter sounds in kindergarten, now they learn those things in preschool. A recent writing and spelling activity in a 4K classroom included learning the letter combination “qu” and writing words such as quarter and quilt. Students are now expected to read in kindergarten. Students have much less free- play time and nap time is restricted to two and three year olds.

High school requirements have increased

Not only are young children learning more content and skills at an earlier age, high schools students are too. Once elective classes such as physics and chemistry are now mandatory. Students take four years of math, science, and English as graduation requirements have increased. Most states have implemented graduation tests.

Recess time is limited

Once upon a time, children enjoyed morning and afternoon recess, as well as a lunch time that included recess. Most schools have eliminated at least one recess with many maintaining only the lunch time break. Allowing students a half- hour break for lunch and recess is usual practice. As recess time is limited, teachers try to include more physical activity in the classroom by incorporating activities that allow students to move.

Technology is infused everywhere

Remember computer labs?  They are rapidly going the way of the dinosaurs. There is much less emphasis on learning how to use technology- such as in keyboarding, and more emphasis on infusing technology into all areas of learning. Schools are moving to models where every child has a tablet or laptop. Interactive whiteboards have replaced overhead projectors, videos on tape and the once common filmstrip. Students are expected to use technology to create products such as videos to demonstrate learning. Online learning management systems such as Edmodo help students and teachers to work in a paperless mode.

Standards dictate learning

Schools today work from common learning standards, whether it is the Common Core or specific state standards. Standards dictate what students should learn at a specific level, but do not tell teachers how those standards must taught.  All educational activities are tied to the standards, which are tied to standardized tests.

Individualized learning

As the standards movement has dictated common learning for all, there is an increase in the number of individualized learning plans and programs for specific students. Many students have Individualized Education Programs (IEP’S) or 504 plans which spell out accommodations to ensure academic success. Learning is often tiered so that students receive various levels of instruction, tier one being whole class instruction with tiers two and three being gradually more individualized instruction.

More adults in the classroom

One teacher per classroom was the norm for many years. Today’s classrooms often have multiple teachers and other adults flowing in and out. You might find a special education teacher, speech and language pathologist, reading teacher, and teacher assistants in a classroom, each working with a small group or an individual.

Tightened security

If you have had to press a buzzer to be admitted to your child’s school, you recognize the increased security. Visitors must present photo identification and wear a visitor identification badge. Anyone, including volunteers, who works in a school goes through a background check. School personnel wear identification badges at all times. All school doors are locked and entrance is generally restricted to one or two doors. Many schools have metal detectors as well as on-campus security personnel. Teacher in-service now includes training for potential attacks.

21st Century Skills

Schools recognize the need to prepare students for success in work, life and citizenship. In addition to content area learning standards, schools focus on 21st century skills such as critical thinking, problem solving, collaboration and teamwork. This emphasis also includes skills in areas such as information and technology literacy, social responsibility and ethics, and global and cultural awareness.

A changing world requires changes in education. What other school changes have you noticed?  Do you think the changes are positive or negative? We would love to hear your thoughts in the comments section below.