A learner in the 21st century should be prepared to learn throughout his life. Technologies and ideas are in constant flux in any century, but in this century the news travels faster than it ever did in the past. Students in this century should have an open mindset and be ready to absorb any new information that comes along. They should be active learners, seeking this new information on their own.
Since things change so fast today, a learner who stays on top of the changes by taking the initiative to learn more about them on his own will be more successful than one who does not. Taking charge of his learning is one of the most important steps a successful student can take.
Students of the 21st century often take some form of online course during their lives. In an online course, going to class is not physically required and no teacher stands over students' shoulders watching them study. The outside motivation to be actively involved in a class is not a factor. It is necessary for 21st century learners to take the responsibility for learning upon themselves.
With the openness of communications available in many countries today, it is important that the 21st century learner keep in mind that opinions are more easily expressed and distributed than ever before. A learner should be able to listen to and evaluate the truth behind an opinion someone promotes. The learner should also be open to hearing other opinions, thinking critically and questioning the truth as it is presented to him when necessary.
Writing is a key skill necessary to be a successful learner in the 21st century. The online learning platform requires students to carefully craft their answers if they want their ideas to be taken seriously. The online learning platform is good for those who are not good public speakers and who may have trouble composing complete and thoughtful answers on the fly, according to the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. Taking the time to use good grammar, mechanics and spelling as well as thinking through an answer helps students because others will take what they have said seriously and actively include them in a discussion where learning takes place.