Future‐focused learning ecologies in a rapidly evolving global ecosystem

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to emphasize the role of education as the formal means for preparing people for the future, outlining the need for interdisciplinary and systemic use of new learning technologies to re‐align with present learning needs.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the lens of Miller's Living Systems Theory, such a collaboration between learning scientists, educators, and policy makers is now both possible and necessary because of emerging learning technologies.

Findings

Using these learning technologies across the curriculum throughout a learner's life will assist them to adapt within increasingly fast‐paced, interconnected, and complex systems.

Practical implications

Administrators should collaborate with teachers, organizations, learning scientists, and students, themselves to integrate these new learning technologies in substantive new ways that enhance future conciousness.

Originality/value

The paper provides a potential bridge between the abstract notion of future consciousness and the proliferating use of new learning technologies. Educational leaders may find here ideas for situating their institutional visions, missions, and strategic directions.

Citation

Richter, J. (2009), "Future‐focused learning ecologies in a rapidly evolving global ecosystem", On the Horizon, Vol. 17 No. 2, pp. 163-170. https://doi.org/10.1108/10748120910965539