Earlier today I ran across this fascinating article by Thomas Frey, “The Future of Education.”

He notes in his introduction that numerous elements are missing from contemporary education; elements which he believes will be implemented in the coming years.  What really piqued my interest was his solution, “these missing pieces will be a participative courseware-builder that allows the general public to create courses on any conceivable topic.”  How will this shift occur?  Are the beginning facets of of Frey’s vision already seeing light?

Frey, continues analyzing current American society and then presents “eight driving forces” which he believes will effect education.  I highly encourage you to click the link at the top of this post and go read his thoughts.  I believe his aim is right on.

So how will this shift occur?  Truth is, its already occurring.  Educational communities are showing up everywhere.  Take “The Frog Blog” for instance.  This is an open Facebook group that focuses on a communal education.  Bimonthly, a new subject is presented to the community and the members post their thoughts and links about said topic: “Then, it’s on to the next lilly pad of knowledge, jumping from one topic to the next.”  Small groups like this will eventually become the foundation for education in the 21st century.

I would estimate, and Frey seems to agree, that educational trends are moving from teaching to learning (the first of his eight forces).  Communities, focusing specifically on learning — on acquiring knowledge — will soon be the norm.  As discussed in my previous post, Web 2.0 and personal tutors will be the forefront of this movement.

When will these communities become the norm?  I would suggest they are imminent.

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