Collaboration is increasingly identified as an important educational outcome, and most models of twenty-first-century skills include collaboration as a key skill (e.g., Griffin, McGaw, & Care, 2012; Pellegrino & Hilton, 2012; OECD PISA Collaborative Problem Solving Expert Working Group, 2013; Trilling & Fadel, 2009). Such widespread…

The use of simulations and digital games in learning and assessment is expected to increase over the next several years. Although there is much theoretical support for the benefits of digital games in learning and education, there is mixed empirical support. This research report provides an overview of the theoretical and empirical evidence behind…

This paper will share the author's experiences working with a large and diverse school district to design curriculum-embedded, performance-based assessments (PBAs) that measure 21st century skills in K-5 students. These assessments are designed to integrate seamlessly with classroom instruction; measure skills such as critical thinking,…

This paper synthesizes research evidence pertaining to several so-called 21st century skills: critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, metacognition, and motivation. We provide a rationale for focusing on these five skills and explain their importance as educational outcomes. We then summarize peer-reviewed research published in education and…