Preparing Australian high school learners with 21st century skills

In today's digital world, schools are expected to prepare students for the 21st century. Skills such as critical evaluation, problem-solving, collaborative working and online communication are required of 21st century learners. There are assumptions that young people who use technologies in the online environment already know how to use those skills for learning and the workplace. However, that is not necessarily true and some responsibility is on schools to develop skills and knowledge to enable students' success and better prepare them for future lives. The question investigated in this paper through a narrative review of the literature is, “Do Australian high school students have 21st century skills to equip themselves for the ever-changing global and connected world?” There is a strong logic for the teaching of these skills and capabilities in schools, so students are able to function effectively not only in the classroom but more importantly beyond the classroom.