Serious Play Lab Wiki - User contributions [en]

The Educational Evolutionaries (2035-2045)

2024-04-05T13:40:23Z

209.195.250.26:

World Creators: Cenet, Anabel Ranga and Yi

== History and Politics ==
== Education ==
=== Elementary Education ===
The COVID-19 pandemic accentuated a lot of the existing problems in society especially in the field of education. Post-pandemic teachers, parents and administrators saw many negative effects of online learning in the elementary levels of education. A variety of problems arose including, but not limited to issues with socialization and development of social skills, students not reaching curriculum expectations and lacking the basic literacy and mathematics skills. As a result, during the years 2035 - 2045 though technology makes a presence in different ways in the elementary division, students have not switched to a hybrid or online format of learning. Along with the negative repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic, society as a whole realized the significance that elementary education has in providing students with foundational knowledge required to advance in their education. Hence, though formal schooling is still present in the elementary division, it looks different.

Throughout the years of 2035 – 2045, various Indigenous pedagogies are adopted into the education system to target various issues that arose in the years prior. One of the most significant issues that arose amongst students was the desire to learn. Though this issue has always been present in the education system, it was amplified after the COVID-19 pandemic. There was a substantial lack of motivation amongst students to learn, especially in the elementary division. At first, this issue was attempted to be solved by creating engaging lessons and incorporating technology into the class, however, the year 2024 revealed that a deeper solution was required as these pedagogical changes were deemed ineffective. With the introduction of various technologies such as ChatGPT and other generative AI, as well as the level of accessibility of basic knowledge through the internet, students no longer saw a value in what they were learning and as a result were not motivated to learn. Consequently, throughout the years of 2035 - 2045, elementary education adopts Indigenous pedagogies that emphasize teaching the relevancy in what students are learning. These pedagogies improve the motivation of students as they start to see the value of their education.

The years 2023 and 2024 saw the return of rote style learning, but in the format of online games. For instance, education games such as mPower and Knowledgehook were introduced into the elementary schooling system as a way to keep students engaged in literacy and mathematical content. The core of those games contained rote learning because in order to obtain the correct answer, students were required to have some sort of knowledge of facts. These types of games continue to be prevalent in the years 2035 - 2045, as school boards realized (in the years 2023 and 2024) the benefits of repetition of content and memorization for retaining knowledge. That being said, unlike the past where the curriculum favoured solely rote learning or solely inquiry learning, in the years 2035 – 2045 there is a realization that both are required to provide a quality education. The rote learning which is done through students' use of technology, through means such as games, provides students with the basic literacy and mathematics skills, while the teacher in the classroom serves as a facilitator for inquiry-based learning tasks. For instance, a junior grade literacy-based inquiry task might look like having students exploring their family tree/history by engaging with family members and recording their stories either through digital and assistive technologies or recording them on paper. This means that teachers have gradually moved away from primarily assessing based on knowledge to assessing students ability to critically think and analyze.

Another aspect of education that has been influenced by Indigenous pedagogies is the move away from learning in a checkbox format to learning being seen in a more holistic way. Content being taught in the classroom is now interwoven and concepts are revisited several times throughout the year as opposed to being taught and then simply forgotten about. This will occur in the more inquiry-based tasks completed in the classroom. For instance, in mathematics this might look like providing students with numeracy problems and tasks that have more than one way of obtaining the correct answer.

=== Secondary Education ===
Although the older generations may still recognize the elementary education system, the same cannot be entirely said about secondary education. Secondary education between the years 2035 - 2045 in Toronto has become much more technologically advanced and personalized.

Following the return to in-person learning after the COVID-19 pandemic, educators noticed an extreme lack of motivation amongst secondary students. At the same time, students were often heard voicing their frustration in having to learn concepts and subjects which they felt were not relevant to their future goals and endeavours. After years of trying to resolve these issues with teaching strategies such as culturally relevant and responsive pedagogy, the shift was finally made to a stronger focus on personalized education.

Students are still required to take English (4 credits) and French (1 credit). As well, with technology being an integral part of life and society, students are also required to take a mandatory technology basics course (1 credit). However, aside from these mandatory courses, students are able to choose their courses from Grade 9 all the way through Grade 12, according to their desired path. Students still have the option of choosing to follow the old structure and system of courses if they are unsure of which career path they would like to pursue, however, in order to maximize students' motivation and interest in what they are learning, the choice is completely up to them. Therefore, it can be said that the role of schooling has shifted from a more generalized education to a personalized education. [[File:E-learning hub.jpg|500px|frame|right|E-learning hubs located within each school]]

In terms of the structure, formal schooling institutions have persisted. However, due to the success of online education during the pandemic years (2020 - 2022) and technological advancements, the secondary education system now consists of many more e-learning and blended courses. While in the past there was a teacher physically present teaching each and every course, that is no longer the case. Courses which the government deemed to be content heavy, such as English and history, have been completely transformed into e-learning courses. With this, students have the choice of attending their class from home or coming to school and attending their course(s) in one of the designated e-learning hubs (please see image to right). Contrarily, courses which the government deemed to be hands-on are taught by teachers on-site. These courses include: STEM subjects, physical education, art and other technical subjects. Regardless of the course format, all courses include elements of virtual reality, augmented reality and simulations in order to create a more immersive learning experience that is both interactive and engaging. With the cutting edge technology, students are able to learn complex concepts like never before!

In addition to this, not only has technology impacted the structure of schooling, but has also impacted assessments in secondary education. Back in 2022, when ChatGPT first began gaining popularity, educators across Toronto were puzzled as to how to assess student learning, as countless students were using artificial intelligence to complete many of their assignments. To this end, the Ontario curriculum changed the assessment and evaluation system by drastically reducing the importance and weight of the knowledge/understanding category and instead focusing more so on thinking/inquiry, application and of course, communication. The thought behind this was that with technology being so advanced and readily available, students no longer need to be able to regurgitate basic facts as they can find this information with a few clicks. Instead, the focus is now on being able to critically think, applying knowledge in real world scenarios and effectively communicating one's thoughts and ideas.

With regards to the Ontario curriculum, not only has assessment changed, but another major shift has been seen in Indigenous education. In the early 2020’s, there was more of a focus on the incorporation of Indigenous pedagogies and educators were taking the beginning steps to learn about how to respectfully and effectively incorporate and engage with these pedagogies. Although it took time to learn and establish relationships, Indigenous pedagogies are now part of every course and continue to expand. Not only has this significantly increased equity, inclusion and decolonization, but has also aided in increasing student motivation and interest as they are excited to learn about not only Western pedagogies, but Indigenous pedagogies as well.

Finally, we cannot talk about education without acknowledging how schools are aiding in the climate crisis. Whereas years ago, single use plastics could be seen used all throughout schools, this is no longer the case. Single use plastics are completely banned in schools and now only items which are biodegradable, compostable, plant-based and/or compressed fibers can be used.

== Notable Stories ==

== References ==
https://i.pinimg.com/736x/78/13/c6/7813c6c2552bd8c443c4100e357f8fbd.jpg

A 'Found' Diary Of Secondary School Teacher Zara Knight

2024-04-03T17:51:22Z

209.195.250.26:

'''September 7th, 2040'''

Dear diary,

I can’t believe it! It is officially my 16th year teaching as a secondary school teacher. I’ve got to say that schools and the art of teaching has really come a long way. When I went to school and first started as a teacher, I don’t think I ever imagined secondary schooling would be the way that it is today, but I think it’s amazing! This semester, I am teaching two math courses and one history course. I’m not too worried about the math courses as it’s similar to what I like to call “old-school teaching”. Now, the history course, that is “new-school teaching.” I was talking to Nancy recently and she said she taught an e-learning course last year. Nancy is new blood, so she’s on top of all the tech we use in schools now. I’m not calling myself old or outdated by any means (no way!), but I have to admit that the technology has been advancing much faster compared to when I first started teaching. Soooooo, this e-learning course will be fun and a learning curve for me. The good news is that I myself was a student all the way back in 2020, when the treacherous COVID-19 pandemic hit, so I’m quite experienced being a student in an e-learning course. What I’m more intrigued about is the virtual and augmented reality field trips students and I will be taking into different time periods. Now, I’ve done this a couple times before and I can definitely say these trips are always the highlight of every course! Hmmm, maybe I can find one that’ll show students life during quarantine back in 2020. Oh, what a time that was. Anyways, I digress, that’s all for today.

Signing off,

Zara Knight
----------------------------------------------
'''December 15th, 2040'''

Dear diary,

Fa la la la la, la la la la. I can’t wait for the upcoming Christmas break! But I have to say, this semester has really flown by! Only one more month and then exams! Thankfully, the semester has gone really well. The school recently renovated the e-learning hubs and a lot of my students have told me that they have really enjoyed using them. Even though I’m excited for the break, I have lots to do to prepare for final exams next month. It's been some time since the Ontario curriculum changed the assessment structure, with a greater emphasis on thinking/inquiry, application and communication, but because I’ve used the old structure for so long, it takes me some time to craft assessments, especially something like a final exam. Ah, this makes me reminisce about back in 2022, when ChatGPT took the world by storm. I can still remember being a student teacher and hearing all the contract teachers scrambling and worrying about what to do since so many students were using ChatGPT to complete their assignments. Honestly, it was definitely a challenge at first, but the emphasis on thinking/inquiry and application has really made us teachers focus on deeper learning, versus surface level learning. Sure, it definitely takes a lot more thought, effort and time to create assessments, but I find it’s much more beneficial for students. I think I’ll try and get the exams for all my classes done early so I can enjoy the rest of my break stress-free!
Hmmm, I heard Wonderland is unveiling a new attraction at this year’s WinterFest where they give you a VR headset and you can try exclusive rides in the North Pole. Definitely sounds weird, but I NEED to try it out.

Signing off,

Zara Knight
-------------------------------------------------------
'''February 21st, 2043'''

Dear diary,

I don’t know if I already said this in an earlier entry, but if I haven’t, I’ve been assigned to guidance this term. When I did guidance more than 10 years ago, it was quite different as the secondary schooling system was much more, hmm how should I describe it, structured and generalized. However, I saw that system sort of falling apart, especially after COVID, as students were so unmotivated in a lot of courses and kept saying they didn’t understand why they had to take courses which had nothing to do with their future careers. Well, the government finally heard students and now created a personalized option for them. If I know one thing, it’s that teachers are SO happy to not have to hear students complaining about being in a particular class. Students know they have options now, so complaints have gone down, while motivation has gone up! Honestly, being in guidance, I’ve already found this personalized option to be really helpful for many students. I’m seeing both students who come into highschool knowing exactly what they want to do for the rest of their life, excited to focus on only those courses. On the other hand, I also see many students who feel like they want to explore and keep their options open. It’s actually been really fulfilling to be able to give students options of personalized or generalized paths depending on where they are in their journey. I wonder, if I was a student at this time, would I opt to do the general path used in prior years or would I personalize it for a particular career???

Signing off,

Zara Knight
--------------------------------------------------------------------
'''July 1st, 2045'''

Dear diary,

Happy Canada Day! I’m so glad to be done with the school year and have some down time. My husband, kids and I decided to go out and see some of the Canada Day festivities. This year, like the last few years, has been way less crowded. I know there’s been a move towards de-urbanization as a lot of people were sick and tired of the hustle and bustle in the cities. Although I do understand the appeal of moving further out, I am a city girl through and through and can’t imagine doing it. Maybe when I retire I could, but definitely not now. With all the emphasis on environmental sustainability in the last decade, this year all large attractions were mandated to implement holographic fireworks. The government tried selling it by saying “no noise, no pollution”! Surprisingly, it was much better than I had thought. Holographic fireworks, I wonder what theyll come up with next. Ok, time to rest up because tomorrow I have a huge VR tennis match!

Signing off,

Zara Knight

A 'Found' Diary Of Secondary School Teacher Zara Knight

2024-04-03T17:50:52Z

209.195.250.26:

'''September 7th, 2040'''

Dear diary,

I can’t believe it! It is officially my 16th year teaching as a secondary school teacher. I’ve got to say that schools and the art of teaching has really come a long way. When I went to school and first started as a teacher, I don’t think I ever imagined secondary schooling would be the way that it is today, but I think it’s amazing! This semester, I am teaching two math courses and one history course. I’m not too worried about the math courses as it’s similar to what I like to call “old-school teaching”. Now, the history course, that is “new-school teaching.” I was talking to Nancy recently and she said she taught an e-learning course last year. Nancy is new blood, so she’s on top of all the tech we use in schools now. I’m not calling myself old or outdated by any means (no way!), but I have to admit that the technology has been advancing much faster compared to when I first started teaching. Soooooo, this e-learning course will be fun and a learning curve for me. The good news is that I myself was a student all the way back in 2020, when the treacherous COVID-19 pandemic hit, so I’m quite experienced being a student in an e-learning course. What I’m more intrigued about is the virtual and augmented reality field trips students and I will be taking into different time periods. Now, I’ve done this a couple times before and I can definitely say these trips are always the highlight of every course! Hmmm, maybe I can find one that’ll show students life during quarantine back in 2020. Oh, what a time that was. Anyways, I digress, that’s all for today.

Signing off,
Zara Knight
----------------------------------------------
'''December 15th, 2040'''

Dear diary,

Fa la la la la, la la la la. I can’t wait for the upcoming Christmas break! But I have to say, this semester has really flown by! Only one more month and then exams! Thankfully, the semester has gone really well. The school recently renovated the e-learning hubs and a lot of my students have told me that they have really enjoyed using them. Even though I’m excited for the break, I have lots to do to prepare for final exams next month. It's been some time since the Ontario curriculum changed the assessment structure, with a greater emphasis on thinking/inquiry, application and communication, but because I’ve used the old structure for so long, it takes me some time to craft assessments, especially something like a final exam. Ah, this makes me reminisce about back in 2022, when ChatGPT took the world by storm. I can still remember being a student teacher and hearing all the contract teachers scrambling and worrying about what to do since so many students were using ChatGPT to complete their assignments. Honestly, it was definitely a challenge at first, but the emphasis on thinking/inquiry and application has really made us teachers focus on deeper learning, versus surface level learning. Sure, it definitely takes a lot more thought, effort and time to create assessments, but I find it’s much more beneficial for students. I think I’ll try and get the exams for all my classes done early so I can enjoy the rest of my break stress-free!
Hmmm, I heard Wonderland is unveiling a new attraction at this year’s WinterFest where they give you a VR headset and you can try exclusive rides in the North Pole. Definitely sounds weird, but I NEED to try it out.

Signing off,
Zara Knight
-------------------------------------------------------
'''February 21st, 2043'''

Dear diary,

I don’t know if I already said this in an earlier entry, but if I haven’t, I’ve been assigned to guidance this term. When I did guidance more than 10 years ago, it was quite different as the secondary schooling system was much more, hmm how should I describe it, structured and generalized. However, I saw that system sort of falling apart, especially after COVID, as students were so unmotivated in a lot of courses and kept saying they didn’t understand why they had to take courses which had nothing to do with their future careers. Well, the government finally heard students and now created a personalized option for them. If I know one thing, it’s that teachers are SO happy to not have to hear students complaining about being in a particular class. Students know they have options now, so complaints have gone down, while motivation has gone up! Honestly, being in guidance, I’ve already found this personalized option to be really helpful for many students. I’m seeing both students who come into highschool knowing exactly what they want to do for the rest of their life, excited to focus on only those courses. On the other hand, I also see many students who feel like they want to explore and keep their options open. It’s actually been really fulfilling to be able to give students options of personalized or generalized paths depending on where they are in their journey. I wonder, if I was a student at this time, would I opt to do the general path used in prior years or would I personalize it for a particular career???

Signing off,
Zara Knight
--------------------------------------------------------------------
'''July 1st, 2045'''

Dear diary,

Happy Canada Day! I’m so glad to be done with the school year and have some down time. My husband, kids and I decided to go out and see some of the Canada Day festivities. This year, like the last few years, has been way less crowded. I know there’s been a move towards de-urbanization as a lot of people were sick and tired of the hustle and bustle in the cities. Although I do understand the appeal of moving further out, I am a city girl through and through and can’t imagine doing it. Maybe when I retire I could, but definitely not now. With all the emphasis on environmental sustainability in the last decade, this year all large attractions were mandated to implement holographic fireworks. The government tried selling it by saying “no noise, no pollution”! Surprisingly, it was much better than I had thought. Holographic fireworks, I wonder what theyll come up with next. Ok, time to rest up because tomorrow I have a huge VR tennis match!

Signing off,
Zara Knight

The Educational Evolutionaries (2035-2045)

2024-04-03T17:49:14Z

209.195.250.26: /* Notable Stories */

World Creators: Cenet, Anabel Ranga and Yi

== History and Politics ==
== Education ==
=== Elementary Education ===
=== Secondary Education ===
Although the older generations may still recognize the elementary education system, the same cannot be entirely said about secondary education. Secondary education between the years 2035 - 2045 in Toronto has become much more technologically advanced and personalized.

Following the return to in-person learning after the COVID-19 pandemic, educators noticed an extreme lack of motivation amongst secondary students. At the same time, students were often heard voicing their frustration in having to learn concepts and subjects which they felt were not relevant to their future goals and endeavours. After years of trying to resolve these issues with teaching strategies such as culturally relevant and responsive pedagogy, the shift was finally made to a stronger focus on personalized education.

Students are still required to take English (4 credits) and French (1 credit). As well, with technology being an integral part of life and society, students are also required to take a mandatory technology basics course (1 credit). However, aside from these mandatory courses, students are able to choose their courses from Grade 9 all the way through Grade 12, according to their desired path. Students still have the option of choosing to follow the old structure and system of courses if they are unsure of which career path they would like to pursue, however, in order to maximize students' motivation and interest in what they are learning, the choice is completely up to them. Therefore, it can be said that the role of schooling has shifted from a more generalized education to a personalized education. [[File:E-learning hub.jpg|500px|frame|right|E-learning hubs located within each school]]

In terms of the structure, formal schooling institutions have persisted. However, due to the success of online education during the pandemic years (2020 - 2022) and technological advancements, the secondary education system now consists of many more e-learning and blended courses. While in the past there was a teacher physically present teaching each and every course, that is no longer the case. Courses which the government deemed to be content heavy, such as English and history, have been completely transformed into e-learning courses. With this, students have the choice of attending their class from home or coming to school and attending their course(s) in one of the designated e-learning hubs (please see image to right). Contrarily, courses which the government deemed to be hands-on are taught by teachers on-site. These courses include: STEM subjects, physical education, art and other technical subjects. Regardless of the course format, all courses include elements of virtual reality, augmented reality and simulations in order to create a more immersive learning experience that is both interactive and engaging. With the cutting edge technology, students are able to learn complex concepts like never before!

In addition to this, not only has technology impacted the structure of schooling, but has also impacted assessments in secondary education. Back in 2022, when ChatGPT first began gaining popularity, educators across Toronto were puzzled as to how to assess student learning, as countless students were using artificial intelligence to complete many of their assignments. To this end, the Ontario curriculum changed the assessment and evaluation system by drastically reducing the importance and weight of the knowledge/understanding category and instead focusing more so on thinking/inquiry, application and of course, communication. The thought behind this was that with technology being so advanced and readily available, students no longer need to be able to regurgitate basic facts as they can find this information with a few clicks. Instead, the focus is now on being able to critically think, applying knowledge in real world scenarios and effectively communicating one's thoughts and ideas.

With regards to the Ontario curriculum, not only has assessment changed, but another major shift has been seen in Indigenous education. In the early 2020’s, there was more of a focus on the incorporation of Indigenous pedagogies and educators were taking the beginning steps to learn about how to respectfully and effectively incorporate and engage with these pedagogies. Although it took time to learn and establish relationships, Indigenous pedagogies are now part of every course and continue to expand. Not only has this significantly increased equity, inclusion and decolonization, but has also aided in increasing student motivation and interest as they are excited to learn about not only Western pedagogies, but Indigenous pedagogies as well.

Finally, we cannot talk about education without acknowledging how schools are aiding in the climate crisis. Whereas years ago, single use plastics could be seen used all throughout schools, this is no longer the case. Single use plastics are completely banned in schools and now only items which are biodegradable, compostable, plant-based and/or compressed fibers can be used.

== Notable Stories ==

== References ==
https://i.pinimg.com/736x/78/13/c6/7813c6c2552bd8c443c4100e357f8fbd.jpg

A 'Found' Diary Of Secondary School Teacher Zara Knight

2024-04-03T17:48:37Z

209.195.250.26: Created page with "September 7th, 2040 Dear diary, I can’t believe it! It is officially my 16th year teaching as a secondary school teacher. I’ve got to say that schools and the art of teaching has really come a long way. When I went to school and first started as a teacher, I don’t think I ever imagined secondary schooling would be the way that it is today, but I think it’s amazing! This semester, I am teaching two math courses and one history course. I’m not too worried about..."

September 7th, 2040
Dear diary,
I can’t believe it! It is officially my 16th year teaching as a secondary school teacher. I’ve got to say that schools and the art of teaching has really come a long way. When I went to school and first started as a teacher, I don’t think I ever imagined secondary schooling would be the way that it is today, but I think it’s amazing! This semester, I am teaching two math courses and one history course. I’m not too worried about the math courses as it’s similar to what I like to call “old-school teaching”. Now, the history course, that is “new-school teaching.” I was talking to Nancy recently and she said she taught an e-learning course last year. Nancy is new blood, so she’s on top of all the tech we use in schools now. I’m not calling myself old or outdated by any means (no way!), but I have to admit that the technology has been advancing much faster compared to when I first started teaching. Soooooo, this e-learning course will be fun and a learning curve for me. The good news is that I myself was a student all the way back in 2020, when the treacherous COVID-19 pandemic hit, so I’m quite experienced being a student in an e-learning course. What I’m more intrigued about is the virtual and augmented reality field trips students and I will be taking into different time periods. Now, I’ve done this a couple times before and I can definitely say these trips are always the highlight of every course! Hmmm, maybe I can find one that’ll show students life during quarantine back in 2020. Oh, what a time that was. Anyways, I digress, that’s all for today.
Signing off,
Zara Knight
----------------------------------------------
December 15th, 2040
Dear diary,
Fa la la la la, la la la la. I can’t wait for the upcoming Christmas break! But I have to say, this semester has really flown by! Only one more month and then exams! Thankfully, the semester has gone really well. The school recently renovated the e-learning hubs and a lot of my students have told me that they have really enjoyed using them. Even though I’m excited for the break, I have lots to do to prepare for final exams next month. It's been some time since the Ontario curriculum changed the assessment structure, with a greater emphasis on thinking/inquiry, application and communication, but because I’ve used the old structure for so long, it takes me some time to craft assessments, especially something like a final exam. Ah, this makes me reminisce about back in 2022, when ChatGPT took the world by storm. I can still remember being a student teacher and hearing all the contract teachers scrambling and worrying about what to do since so many students were using ChatGPT to complete their assignments. Honestly, it was definitely a challenge at first, but the emphasis on thinking/inquiry and application has really made us teachers focus on deeper learning, versus surface level learning. Sure, it definitely takes a lot more thought, effort and time to create assessments, but I find it’s much more beneficial for students. I think I’ll try and get the exams for all my classes done early so I can enjoy the rest of my break stress-free!
Hmmm, I heard Wonderland is unveiling a new attraction at this year’s WinterFest where they give you a VR headset and you can try exclusive rides in the North Pole. Definitely sounds weird, but I NEED to try it out.
Signing off,
Zara Knight
-------------------------------------------------------
February 21st, 2043
Dear diary,
I don’t know if I already said this in an earlier entry, but if I haven’t, I’ve been assigned to guidance this term. When I did guidance more than 10 years ago, it was quite different as the secondary schooling system was much more, hmm how should I describe it, structured and generalized. However, I saw that system sort of falling apart, especially after COVID, as students were so unmotivated in a lot of courses and kept saying they didn’t understand why they had to take courses which had nothing to do with their future careers. Well, the government finally heard students and now created a personalized option for them. If I know one thing, it’s that teachers are SO happy to not have to hear students complaining about being in a particular class. Students know they have options now, so complaints have gone down, while motivation has gone up! Honestly, being in guidance, I’ve already found this personalized option to be really helpful for many students. I’m seeing both students who come into highschool knowing exactly what they want to do for the rest of their life, excited to focus on only those courses. On the other hand, I also see many students who feel like they want to explore and keep their options open. It’s actually been really fulfilling to be able to give students options of personalized or generalized paths depending on where they are in their journey. I wonder, if I was a student at this time, would I opt to do the general path used in prior years or would I personalize it for a particular career???
Signing off,
Zara Knight
--------------------------------------------------------------------
July 1st, 2045
Dear diary,
Happy Canada Day! I’m so glad to be done with the school year and have some down time. My husband, kids and I decided to go out and see some of the Canada Day festivities. This year, like the last few years, has been way less crowded. I know there’s been a move towards de-urbanization as a lot of people were sick and tired of the hustle and bustle in the cities. Although I do understand the appeal of moving further out, I am a city girl through and through and can’t imagine doing it. Maybe when I retire I could, but definitely not now. With all the emphasis on environmental sustainability in the last decade, this year all large attractions were mandated to implement holographic fireworks. The government tried selling it by saying “no noise, no pollution”! Surprisingly, it was much better than I had thought. Holographic fireworks, I wonder what theyll come up with next. Ok, time to rest up because tomorrow I have a huge VR tennis match!
Signing off,
Zara Knight

The Educational Evolutionaries (2035-2045)

2024-04-03T17:48:08Z

209.195.250.26: /* Notable Stories */

World Creators: Cenet, Anabel Ranga and Yi

== History and Politics ==
== Education ==
=== Elementary Education ===
=== Secondary Education ===
Although the older generations may still recognize the elementary education system, the same cannot be entirely said about secondary education. Secondary education between the years 2035 - 2045 in Toronto has become much more technologically advanced and personalized.

Following the return to in-person learning after the COVID-19 pandemic, educators noticed an extreme lack of motivation amongst secondary students. At the same time, students were often heard voicing their frustration in having to learn concepts and subjects which they felt were not relevant to their future goals and endeavours. After years of trying to resolve these issues with teaching strategies such as culturally relevant and responsive pedagogy, the shift was finally made to a stronger focus on personalized education.

Students are still required to take English (4 credits) and French (1 credit). As well, with technology being an integral part of life and society, students are also required to take a mandatory technology basics course (1 credit). However, aside from these mandatory courses, students are able to choose their courses from Grade 9 all the way through Grade 12, according to their desired path. Students still have the option of choosing to follow the old structure and system of courses if they are unsure of which career path they would like to pursue, however, in order to maximize students' motivation and interest in what they are learning, the choice is completely up to them. Therefore, it can be said that the role of schooling has shifted from a more generalized education to a personalized education. [[File:E-learning hub.jpg|500px|frame|right|E-learning hubs located within each school]]

In terms of the structure, formal schooling institutions have persisted. However, due to the success of online education during the pandemic years (2020 - 2022) and technological advancements, the secondary education system now consists of many more e-learning and blended courses. While in the past there was a teacher physically present teaching each and every course, that is no longer the case. Courses which the government deemed to be content heavy, such as English and history, have been completely transformed into e-learning courses. With this, students have the choice of attending their class from home or coming to school and attending their course(s) in one of the designated e-learning hubs (please see image to right). Contrarily, courses which the government deemed to be hands-on are taught by teachers on-site. These courses include: STEM subjects, physical education, art and other technical subjects. Regardless of the course format, all courses include elements of virtual reality, augmented reality and simulations in order to create a more immersive learning experience that is both interactive and engaging. With the cutting edge technology, students are able to learn complex concepts like never before!

In addition to this, not only has technology impacted the structure of schooling, but has also impacted assessments in secondary education. Back in 2022, when ChatGPT first began gaining popularity, educators across Toronto were puzzled as to how to assess student learning, as countless students were using artificial intelligence to complete many of their assignments. To this end, the Ontario curriculum changed the assessment and evaluation system by drastically reducing the importance and weight of the knowledge/understanding category and instead focusing more so on thinking/inquiry, application and of course, communication. The thought behind this was that with technology being so advanced and readily available, students no longer need to be able to regurgitate basic facts as they can find this information with a few clicks. Instead, the focus is now on being able to critically think, applying knowledge in real world scenarios and effectively communicating one's thoughts and ideas.

With regards to the Ontario curriculum, not only has assessment changed, but another major shift has been seen in Indigenous education. In the early 2020’s, there was more of a focus on the incorporation of Indigenous pedagogies and educators were taking the beginning steps to learn about how to respectfully and effectively incorporate and engage with these pedagogies. Although it took time to learn and establish relationships, Indigenous pedagogies are now part of every course and continue to expand. Not only has this significantly increased equity, inclusion and decolonization, but has also aided in increasing student motivation and interest as they are excited to learn about not only Western pedagogies, but Indigenous pedagogies as well.

Finally, we cannot talk about education without acknowledging how schools are aiding in the climate crisis. Whereas years ago, single use plastics could be seen used all throughout schools, this is no longer the case. Single use plastics are completely banned in schools and now only items which are biodegradable, compostable, plant-based and/or compressed fibers can be used.

== Notable Stories ==
[[A 'Found' Diary Of Secondary School Teacher Zara Knight]]

== References ==
https://i.pinimg.com/736x/78/13/c6/7813c6c2552bd8c443c4100e357f8fbd.jpg

The Educational Evolutionaries (2035-2045)

2024-04-03T17:46:57Z

209.195.250.26: /* Notable Stories */