Authentic Problem Solving and Learning for Twenty-First Century Learners

Abstract

In line with the goal of developing learners for the twenty-first century, which is characterized by the emergence of knowledge-based economies, educators have strived to cultivate students’ competence in authentic problem solving. This book documents innovative practices of authentic problem solving and learning in Singapore and other countries with regard to three main approaches: authentic problem, authentic practice, and authentic participation. Concerning authentic problems, this book introduces the role and design of authentic problems and problem-based learning environments. The discussions on authentic practice emphasize authentic experience, tool-mediated action, and culture more than realistic problems themselves. The last key theme in the book, authentic participation, elucidates informal learning out of school and learners’ interaction with practitioners in a community of practice. Throughout this book, the dynamic interaction and tensions of authentic problems, learners, tools, and learning environments are discussed along with successful cases of authentic learning in K-12 school, higher education, and professional development. Blending contributions from Singapore-based and international authors, this book provides useful information, new insights, successful stories, and practical guides to school leaders, parents, teachers, and researchers who are willing to develop authentic learning environments for twenty-first century learners.KeywordsAuthentic problem solvingAuthentic learningTwenty-first century competenciesAuthentic practiceAuthentic problemCommunity of practice