HEY, 21-ST CENTURY LEARNER, IS THAT YOU? CHECK IT NOW!

Have you noticed that we don't surprise anymore when we see primary school students who use their smartphones for following their favorite Youtube channels or asking to google everything they wonder about? Actually, it sounds quite normal. We are surrounded by technology and the internet. We can see its influence on almost every aspect of our lives. Technology has also deeply changed education. With simple internet research, learners can get the information they're looking for. Students are fortunate because technology offers powerful learning tools. It is important for teachers to benefit from these opportunities and prepare students for the digital world.

Nowadays, learners are expected to develop some competencies to succeed in the 21st century. In addition to key subjects such as English skills, mathematics, economics, science, etc.; students also should improve communication, critical thinking, collaboration, and creativity. These elements are essential for students. Communication is the core of social integration. Mostly due to migrations or trades, people with different backgrounds come together and share ideas, express their feelings, or contribute to the same topics. Diversity is continuously increasing. People are learning to live with great diversity in culture, gender, or age. As a result of globalization; 21st century requires effective communication both face to face and online. Similarly, people are expected to apply collaboration skills such as leadership because group work has become widespread. Problem-solving and critical thinking is vitally important because students have extensive resources where they can get answers quickly. They need to learn to analyze, evaluate, interpret complex texts. Internet and technology are like a wide ocean, discover it, think creatively, be open to change, implement innovations.

In terms of English Language Teaching, 21st-century skills are significantly important. Language learning should no longer be based on grammar. Teachers are expected to be guides and facilitators in the 21st century. Oral communications, student-student interactions are crucial. Teachers should search for apps, websites, social media tools to assist their student's life and career. Blogs, podcasts, wikis are just an example of materials that teachers can use.