CHAPTER –I

CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK

1.1 INTRODUCTION

Education in the 21st century is evolving to meet the demands of a rapidly changing,

interconnected, and technology-driven world. Modern education aims to equip students with the

knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to succeed in this dynamic environment. Here, we

explore the key components of 21st-century education, the role of 21st-century skills, and

strategies for integrating these skills into the educational system. 21st Century education is about

preparing students for the complexities of modern life, work, and citizenship. By integrating 21st

Century skills into the curriculum, pedagogy, and learning environments, educators can create a

more engaging, relevant, and effective educational experience. This holistic approach ensures

that students are not only knowledgeable but also adaptable, innovative, and capable of thriving

in a rapidly changing world. 21st Century skills are crucial for preparing students to navigate and

succeed in the modern world. These skills are grouped into three main categories:

1. Learning Skills (The Four Cs):

 Critical Thinking: Analyzing and evaluating information to make informed

decisions.

 Creativity: Generating innovative ideas and solutions.

 Collaboration: Working effectively with others.

 Communication: Expressing ideas clearly and effectively.

2. Literacy Skills (IMT):

 Information Literacy: Ability to locate, evaluate, and use information.

 Media Literacy: Understanding and critically analyzing media content.

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  Technology Literacy: Proficiency in using digital tools and understanding their

impact.

3. Life Skills (FLIPS):

 Flexibility: Adapting to new situations and challenges.

 Leadership: Guiding and inspiring others.

 Initiative: Taking charge and pursuing goals independently.

 Productivity: Managing time and resources effectively.

 Social Skills: Interacting effectively with others and demonstrating empathy.

1.2 21stCENTURY SKILLS

21st Century skills are a set of knowledge, skills, work habits, and character traits that are

crucial for success in today's world, particularly in the areas of college education, contemporary

careers, and civic life. These skills are designed to help individuals navigate the complexities of

a rapidly changing, technology-driven global society. They can be broadly categorized into three

main areas: learning skills, literacy skills, and life skills. 21st Century skills encompass a wide

range of abilities, traits, and competencies essential for success in today's interconnected,

technology-driven, and fast-evolving world. These skills can be broadly classified into three

main categories: learning skills, literacy skills, and life skills.

Learning Skills (The Four Cs)

1. Critical Thinking:

o Definition: The ability to think clearly, rationally, and independently, analyzing

and evaluating information to make reasoned decisions.

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 o Importance: Critical thinking is essential for problem-solving, decision-making,

and understanding complex issues. It enables individuals to assess the validity of

arguments, identify biases, and make well-informed judgments.

o Application: In education, critical thinking can be fostered through inquiry-based

learning, debates, and analytical writing. In the workplace, it aids in strategic

planning, troubleshooting, and innovation.

2. Creativity:

o Definition: The capacity to generate novel ideas, think outside the box, and

approach problems from unique perspectives.

o Importance: Creativity drives innovation, allowing for the development of new

products, services, and solutions. It encourages adaptability and resourcefulness.

o Application: Encouraging creative thinking in schools through arts, open-ended

projects, and brainstorming sessions. In business, it leads to innovative marketing

strategies, product designs, and problem-solving approaches.

3. Collaboration:

o Definition: Working effectively and efficiently with others, often in diverse and

multicultural environments.

o Importance: Collaboration is crucial in a globalized world where teamwork and

communication are essential for success. It builds interpersonal skills, empathy,

and the ability to work towards common goals.

o Application: Group projects, team sports, and cooperative learning activities in

education. In professional settings, it involves teamwork, project management,

and cross-functional collaboration.

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 4. Communication:

o Definition: The ability to articulate thoughts and ideas clearly and effectively

using oral, written, and nonverbal communication skills in a variety of forms and

contexts.

o Importance: Effective communication is fundamental for conveying information,

building relationships, and facilitating collaboration. It ensures clarity, reduces

misunderstandings, and enhances productivity.

o Application: Teaching effective writing, public speaking, and digital

communication in schools. In the workplace, it involves presentations, report

writing, and interpersonal communication.

Literacy Skills (IMT)

1. Information Literacy:

o Definition: The ability to locate, evaluate, and use information effectively and

ethically from various sources.

o Importance: Information literacy is essential in a world overflowing with

information. It helps individuals discern credible sources, understand context, and

avoid misinformation.

o Application: Teaching research skills, critical evaluation of sources, and ethical

use of information in education. In professional settings, it involves market

research, data analysis, and informed decision-making.

2. Media Literacy:

o Definition: The ability to critically analyze media messages and understand the

role of media in society.

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 o Importance: Media literacy helps individuals navigate the complex media

landscape, recognize bias, and understand the impact of media on public opinion

and behavior.

o Application: Analyzing advertisements, news articles, and social media content

in educational settings. In professional environments, it involves media

monitoring, public relations, and strategic communication.

3. Technology Literacy:

o Definition: Proficiency in using technology tools and understanding the impact of

technology on individuals and society.

o Importance: Technology literacy is critical in a digital age, enabling individuals

to leverage technology for learning, productivity, and innovation.

o Application: Integrating technology into the curriculum through coding, digital

tools, and online learning platforms in education. In business, it includes software

proficiency, digital marketing, and cybersecurity.

Life Skills (FLIPS)

1. Flexibility:

o Definition: Adapting to varied roles, job responsibilities, schedules, and contexts.

o Importance: Flexibility is vital in an ever-changing world, allowing individuals

to adjust to new circumstances, challenges, and opportunities.

o Application: Encouraging adaptability through dynamic projects and diverse

learning experiences in education. In the workplace, it involves shifting roles,

remote work, and continuous learning.

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2. Leadership:

o Definition: The ability to guide and motivate others to achieve a common goal.

o Importance: Leadership skills are essential for driving teams, making strategic

decisions, and fostering a positive organizational culture.

o Application: Developing leadership through student councils, group activities,

and leadership training programs in schools. In professional settings, it includes

team management, conflict resolution, and visionary planning.

3. Initiative:

o Definition: Taking the initiative to set goals and work independently.

o Importance: Initiative drives personal and professional growth, encouraging

proactive behavior and self-motivation.

o Application: Fostering a sense of responsibility and self-directed learning in

educational settings. In business, it involves entrepreneurship, project ownership,

and innovation.

4. Productivity:

o Definition: Efficiently managing time and projects to achieve goals.

o Importance: Productivity is crucial for maximizing output, meeting deadlines,

and achieving success.

o Application: Teaching time management, goal setting, and organizational skills

in education. In professional environments, it involves project management,

efficiency tools, and performance metrics.

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 5. Social Skills:

o Definition: Effectively navigating social environments, demonstrating empathy,

and practicing ethical behavior.

o Importance: Social skills are essential for building relationships, resolving

conflicts, and collaborating effectively.

o Application: Encouraging teamwork, empathy-building activities, and ethical

discussions in schools. In the workplace, it includes networking, customer

relations, and team dynamics.

21st Century skills are vital for success in today's rapidly changing world. By

emphasizing learning skills, literacy skills, and life skills, educational systems can prepare

students not only for academic achievement but also for lifelong success in their personal and

professional lives. These skills enable individuals to navigate complexities, embrace change, and

thrive in a globalized, digital society.

1.3 21st CENTURY SKILLS AND TEACHER EDUCATION

21st Century skills are essential for students to thrive in today's complex, technology-

driven, and rapidly changing world. For students to acquire these skills, teachers themselves

must be well-prepared and equipped with the knowledge, tools, and pedagogical strategies to

effectively impart them. Thus, teacher education plays a pivotal role in the integration and

promotion of 21st Century skills in the classroom.

Critical Thinking and Problem Solving:

Teachers must develop their own critical thinking skills to analyze educational practices,

curricula, and student needs effectively. Teacher training programs should include activities that

enhance analytical thinking, such as case studies, action research, and reflective practice.

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Creativity and Innovation:

Teachers need to be creative in designing lessons that engage students and foster an

innovative learning environment. Implementation: Professional development workshops can

provide teachers with techniques to incorporate arts, technology, and project-based learning into

their teaching.

Collaboration:

Collaboration among teachers, as well as between teachers and students, is crucial for a

supportive learning environment. Teacher education programs should emphasize collaborative

learning through group projects, peer mentoring, and professional learning communities.

Communication:

Effective communication skills are essential for teachers to convey concepts clearly, give

constructive feedback, and engage with parents and the community. Training programs can

include courses on communication strategies, public speaking, and digital communication tools.

Information Literacy:

Teachers must be adept at finding, evaluating, and using information to support their

teaching and stay current with educational research. Implementation: Programs should

incorporate training on research skills, critical evaluation of sources, and the ethical use of

information.

Media Literacy:

Understanding media and its impact on students is crucial for teaching digital citizenship

and critical media consumption. Professional development should cover media analysis, the

influence of media on society, and strategies for teaching students to critically engage with

media.

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Technology Literacy:

Proficiency with educational technologies is necessary for integrating digital tools into

the classroom effectively. Teacher education programs should offer hands-on training with the

latest educational technology, software, and online platforms.

Flexibility and Adaptability:

Teachers must be flexible and adaptable to meet diverse student needs and adjust to

changing educational demands. Training should include strategies for differentiated instruction,

inclusive education, and adaptive learning environments.

Leadership and Responsibility:

Teachers often take on leadership roles within their schools and must model

responsibility and ethical behavior. Programs should provide opportunities for leadership

development, including mentorship, school improvement projects, and ethical decision-making

exercises.

Initiative and Self-Direction:

Teachers should be self-directed learners who take initiative in their professional

development and classroom practice. Encouraging continuous professional learning through

workshops, online courses, and reflective practices.

1.4 NEED FOR 21ST CENTURY SKILLS FOR TEACHERS

In the rapidly evolving educational landscape, the need for teachers to possess 21st

Century skills is more critical than ever. These skills, often categorized into Learning Skills (the

Four Cs), Literacy Skills (IMT), and Life Skills (FLIPS), are essential for preparing students to

thrive in a dynamic and interconnected world.21st Century skills are essential for teachers to

navigate the complexities of modern education and to prepare students for future challenges. By

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developing and applying these skills, teachers can enhance their teaching effectiveness, foster a

positive and dynamic learning environment, and equip students with the abilities they need to

succeed in an ever-changing world.

Learning Skills (The Four Cs)

1. Critical Thinking

o Problem-Solving: Teachers equipped with critical thinking skills can help

students develop the ability to analyze and solve complex problems, which is vital

for their future success.

o Decision Making: Effective critical thinking enables teachers to make informed

decisions about curriculum design, teaching strategies, and classroom

management.

2. Creativity

o Innovation: Teachers who foster creativity can inspire students to think outside

the box and innovate, preparing them for careers that require novel solutions and

creative approaches.

o Engagement: Creative teaching methods can make learning more engaging and

enjoyable for students, thereby improving retention and understanding.

3. Collaboration

o Teamwork: In a globalized world, the ability to work effectively in teams is

crucial. Teachers who model and teach collaboration skills help students learn to

work together towards common goals.

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 o Peer Learning: Collaborative skills allow teachers to facilitate peer learning,

where students learn from each other, enhancing their understanding and retention

of subject matter.

4. Communication

o Effective Teaching: Clear and effective communication is fundamental to

teaching. It helps in delivering complex information in an understandable way and

engaging students in meaningful discussions.

o Feedback: Teachers with strong communication skills can provide constructive

feedback, which is essential for student growth and improvement.

Literacy Skills (IMT)

5. Information Literacy

o Research Skills: Teachers need to guide students in navigating the vast amount of

information available, teaching them how to find, evaluate, and use information

effectively.

o Critical Analysis: Information literacy helps teachers instruct students on

discerning credible sources from unreliable ones, a crucial skill in the digital age.

6. Media Literacy

o Understanding Media: As media continues to influence perceptions and

opinions, teachers must educate students on interpreting and critically analyzing

media messages.

o Bias and Misinformation: Teachers need to help students identify bias and

misinformation in media, fostering an informed and skeptical approach to

consuming media content.

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 7. Technology Literacy

o Digital Competence: Proficiency with technology is essential for modern

teaching. Teachers need to use digital tools to enhance learning experiences and

prepare students for a tech-centric world.

o Adaptability: Technology literacy allows teachers to adapt to new educational

technologies and methodologies, ensuring their teaching practices remain relevant

and effective.

Life Skills (FLIPS)

8. Flexibility

o Adapting to Change: Teachers must be able to adapt to changing circumstances,

such as shifts in educational standards, new technologies, and diverse student

needs.

o Personalized Learning: Flexibility enables teachers to tailor their teaching

methods to accommodate different learning styles and abilities.

9. Leadership

o Inspiring Others: Teachers as leaders inspire and motivate students and

colleagues, driving positive change within the educational environment.

o Role Models: By demonstrating leadership skills, teachers serve as role models

for students, encouraging them to develop their own leadership abilities.

10. Initiative

o Proactive Learning: Teachers with initiative actively seek out professional

development opportunities and stay current with educational trends and best

practices.

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 o Innovation in Education: Initiative encourages teachers to implement new ideas

and strategies to enhance student learning and engagement.

11. Productivity

o Efficient Classroom Management: Productivity skills help teachers manage

their time and resources effectively, leading to a well-organized and efficient

classroom environment.

o Goal Achievement: Teachers who are productive can set and achieve educational

goals, benefiting both their professional growth and their students‟ academic

success.

12. Social Skills

o Building Relationships: Strong social skills enable teachers to build positive

relationships with students, parents, and colleagues, creating a supportive and

collaborative learning environment.

o Conflict Resolution: Teachers with good social skills can effectively manage and

resolve conflicts, ensuring a harmonious and conducive classroom atmosphere.

1.5 STRATEGIES FOR INTEGRATING 21ST CENTURY SKILLS INTO TEACHER

EDUCATION

Project-Based Learning (PBL):

PBL encourages students to learn by engaging in real-world and meaningful projects.

Provide teachers with tools and strategies to design and implement PBL in their classrooms.

Interdisciplinary Teaching:

Combines multiple subject areas to provide a holistic learning experience. Offer courses

that teach how to create interdisciplinary lesson plans and collaborate with colleagues from

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different disciplines. Promotes teamwork and communication among students. Train teachers on

group dynamics, conflict resolution, and cooperative learning strategies.

Use of Educational Technology:

Integrates digital tools and platforms into teaching. Teacher Training: Provide hands-on

experience with educational technologies, including learning management systems (LMS),

interactive whiteboards, and online collaboration tools. Encourages lifelong learning and

professional growth. Establish CPD programs that include workshops, seminars, and online

courses focusing on the latest educational trends and research.

Mentorship and Peer Collaboration:

Facilitates knowledge sharing and support among teachers. Implement mentorship

programs where experienced teachers guide new educators, and create opportunities for peer

collaboration.

Reflective Practice:

Encourages teachers to reflect on their teaching practices and make informed

improvements. Incorporate reflective practice into teacher education through journaling, peer

observations, and feedback sessions.

Culturally Responsive Teaching:

Addresses the diverse cultural backgrounds of students and promotes an inclusive

learning environment. Provide training on cultural competency, diversity, and inclusive teaching

strategies. Integrating 21st Century skills into teacher education is crucial for preparing educators

to meet the demands of modern classrooms and equip students with the skills they need to

succeed. By focusing on critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, communication, and

technology, teacher education programs can ensure that teachers are well-prepared to foster these

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skills in their students. Continuous professional development, hands-on training, and a

supportive learning community are essential components of this process, enabling teachers to

adapt to the evolving educational landscape and effectively support their students' growth and

development.

1.6 PROFESSIONAL COMMITMENT

Professional commitment is composed of two words, “Profession” and “Commitment”.

The word „Profession‟ means a job that need special training and a formal qualification and the

person related to the profession is called professional. Commitment means the time, work and

loyalty that someone devotes to a cause or job. A profession is a calling or a vacation which

implies acquisition of knowledge and skills that are utilized for the service of mankind.

Professional commitment refers to the dedication, loyalty, and responsibility that

individuals demonstrate towards their profession. It encompasses a range of behaviors,

attitudes, and values that reflect a strong attachment and sense of obligation to one's

professional role and the broader objectives of their field. Professional commitment can be

observed in various forms, including:

1. Work Ethic: Consistently putting in effort, showing diligence, and striving for high-

quality outcomes in one's work.

2. Continuous Learning: Engaging in ongoing education and skill development to stay

current with advancements in the field.

3. Ethical Standards: Adhering to the ethical codes and standards set by the profession.

4. Professional Identity: Identifying with the profession and taking pride in being a

member of it.

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 5. Responsibility and Accountability: Being reliable and accountable for one's actions and

decisions in a professional setting.

6. Advocacy: Promoting and advancing the interests and values of the profession within the

community and society at large.

7. Team Collaboration: Working effectively with colleagues and contributing to a positive

and productive work environment.

8. Adaptability: Being open to change and able to adjust to new challenges and

opportunities in the profession.

Overall, professional commitment is a key factor in achieving personal satisfaction and success

in one's career, as well as contributing to the integrity and advancement of the profession itself.

1.7 PROFESSIONAL COMMITMENT OF TEACHERS

Professional commitment in teachers refers to their dedication, loyalty, and responsibility

towards their profession, their students, and the educational community. This commitment is

crucial for fostering a positive learning environment and ensuring student success. Here are key

aspects of professional commitment in teachers:

1. Student-Centered Focus:

o Dedication to Student Success: Prioritizing the academic and personal growth of

students, ensuring that each student has the support needed to achieve their

potential.

o Personalized Instruction: Adapting teaching methods to meet the diverse needs

of students, including those with special needs or learning difficulties.

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2. Continuous Professional Development:

o Lifelong Learning: Engaging in ongoing professional development to stay

current with educational research, teaching strategies, and technological

advancements.

o Reflective Practice: Regularly reflecting on teaching practices and seeking

feedback to improve effectiveness.

3. Ethical Standards and Integrity:

o Adherence to Ethical Guidelines: Following the ethical codes and standards

established by educational authorities and professional organizations.

o Role Modeling: Demonstrating ethical behavior and integrity, serving as a role

model for students.

4. Commitment to the Profession:

o Professional Identity: Embracing and taking pride in the teaching profession,

contributing to its positive image and standing.

o Advocacy: Advocating for the needs and rights of students, colleagues, and the

educational community.

5. Collaboration and Teamwork:

o Team Collaboration: Working effectively with colleagues, sharing resources, and

participating in collaborative planning and problem-solving.

o Community Engagement: Building strong relationships with parents, caregivers,

and the wider community to support student learning and well-being.

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 6. Adaptability and Innovation:

o Flexibility: Being open to new teaching methods, curricula, and technologies, and

adapting to changes in educational policies and student needs.

o Creativity and Innovation: Implementing innovative teaching practices to

engage students and enhance learning experiences.

7. Professional Responsibility and Accountability:

o Reliability: Being dependable and consistent in fulfilling teaching duties and

responsibilities.

o Accountability: Taking responsibility for student outcomes and continuously

striving to improve classroom practices.

8. Work-Life Balance:

o Managing Stress: Finding a healthy balance between professional responsibilities

and personal life to maintain well-being and prevent burnout.

o Support Systems: Utilizing support systems and resources to manage the demands

of the profession effectively.

In summary, professional commitment in teachers is vital for creating an effective and

nurturing educational environment. It involves a dedication to student success, continuous

professional growth, ethical behavior, collaboration, adaptability, and maintaining a healthy

work-life balance.

1.8 MODEL OF PROFESSIONAL COMMITMENT

Meyer and Allen (1993) described the model of Professional commitment according to

which it consists of three dimensions:

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 Affective commitment

 Continuance commitment

 Normative commitment

Affective Commitment: Mowday et al.(1982) conceptualised affective commitment as

an individual‟s attitude towards the organization, consists of a strong belief in and

acceptance of an organization‟s goals whereas Meyer and Allen (1994) defined affective

commitment as the employee‟s feelings of identification with, attachment and

involvement in the organization .In this way, teachers with high affective commitment

show emotional attachment to the institution thereby enhancing their professional

development.

Continuance Commitment: Meyer and Allen (1993) defined continuance commitment

as anything to and value to an individual. People with strong continuance commitment

having attachment to the profession on the cost of leaving the profession.

Normative Commitment: It describes the feelings of employee to his profession.

Employee feels his foremost duty for there in the institution and does task.

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 Figure1.1 – Model of Professional Commitment

NCTE (1998) identified six areas of commitment. Different areas of teacher commitment

are as follows:

Commitment to the learner: The entire education process revolves around the learner; hence

the role of teacher is towards genuine love and affection to his students, helping the students

inside and outside the classroom, concern for empowerment and care for quality of life of

learners. In this way, this type of commitment brings a joyful attitude among students as it may

motivate them to bring personal cares of them. For it, teacher can concern with counsellor for

their problems and extra-curricular activities for bringing motivation and support.

Commitment to the society: Teacher must be committed to the society involving awareness

and concerns about impact of teachers work on advancement of families, communities and

nations. Teacher can serve the society by participating in social, economic and cultural

activities. With the help of promoting policies and programs, the teacher can take initiative in

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promoting equality of opportunity for all pupils and all citizens of a nation. The teacher can

encourage the pupils by teaching and encouraging the value patterns of society to the pupils.

Commitment to the profession: Teacher must be committed towards his profession. Teacher

should have all the qualities of a role model. For this, the teacher has to engage himself in

continuing his professional development and put every possible effort to raise the professional

standards. All these efforts of the teacher promote a climate that have the exercise of

professional judgment and an impact on persons affected by the professional development

careers. Teacher must encourage open and reflective professional culture as well as sound

educational policy.

Commitment to the basic human values: Teacher must understand human values like

honesty, truthfulness, love, cooperation, sympathy and kindness so that he can promote those

values among learners to become them a better citizen of the nation. There is crisis of human

values in the present world. To overcome crisis like economic fanaticism, competitiveness and

material aspects, the teacher can reduce the pressure among learners by inculcating those

values. It is however essential for a teacher to have commitment to the basic value system. This

can be achieved if the teacher will be a role model in the classroom through genuine practice of

professional values like impartiality, objective and national loyalty.

Commitment to attain excellence for professional values: Professionally committed teachers

have a spirit of doing well and “do it well” attitude. They are always keen to achieve the best

through their performance as teachers whenever they accept innovations. The teacher should be

open minded to accept challenges in the way of entire teaching- learning process. Teachers who

always remain students of their area of learning and teaching ultimately reach the level of

professional competence and develop professional ethics.

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1.9 FACTORS INFLUENCING PROFESSIONAL COMMITMENT OF TEACHERS

Job security

The main factor that influences professional commitment among teachers is job

security. Teachers appointed on contractual or ad-hoc basis are often seen as they are not sure

of continuation of their job and remain under the threat of beings hunted out. In such

circumstances, it cannot be expected from them that they will give their best to their profession

and committed to their profession.

Pay Structure and other Benefits

The salary and other benefits given to the teacher are helpful in uplifting their spirit

thereby enhancing their professional commitment. If they got salary to meet their requirements,

they will enhance their interest for doing their best towards their profession. Timely release of

salary also affects their work. On the other hand, if the salary structure is not adequate, it will

deviate their attention from teaching-related work

Promotion Benefits

Frequent transfer of teachers and no clear cut policy for their promotion influences the

professional commitment and performance output of the teachers. The interest of the teachers

towards their profession gradually declines thereby having adverse effect on their professional

commitment.

Opportunities for professional Growth

Training and skill development is an important element of any profession. If teachers

are not given chance to participate in seminars, conferences, workshops or any other faculty

development programs, they will not be in a position to update themselves in their own field.

As a result, they will be deprived of using latest innovations in teaching- learning process

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thereby results in poor performance output of themselves as well as student‟s performance.

Ultimately it will lead to decline in professional commitment level of teachers.

Institutional environment

In schools, the surroundings or environment of the school plays a vital role in enhancing

professional commitment of teachers as well as in bringing positive learning outcomes of pupils

For this, the working environment of teachers should be congenial so that teachers gave their

best. The working conditions of teachers like rules and regulations, flexibility in activities and

timings, independence to make innovations in their activities and relationship with their

colleagues and cooperation from administration area great asset to their professional

commitment. Hence, a family- like environment in the institution keep teachers comfortable

and well-adjusted thereby developing positive attitude towards their job.

Other Factors

There are certain personal and family-related factors which influence the professional

commitment of teachers. Personal factors like motivation level of teacher, their teaching

competency, their attitude towards teaching and students and their educational and professional

qualifications and family-related factors like their socio-economic status, relationship among

family members and status and social relationship of teacher has a large impact on the

professional commitment of teachers.

To conclude, teaching is a passion, profession but not only a job. Positive attitude of a

teacher helps in achieving the ultimate goal of education through the use of resources according

to the needs of pupils. In true sense, professional commitment of teachers is vital for improving

the standards of education. Teacher commitment is also essential as to raise the standards of

teaching and learning.

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1.10 NEED AND SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

The significance of professional commitment is an attitude reflecting the strength of the

bound between an employee and organization. For a person who is professionally committed,

work is the vital part of life. This means that both the work itself and the co-workers are very

meaningful to the employee, in addition to the importance she attaches to the organization as a

whole. Active participation in decision making increases involvement and professional

commitment. It tunes the higher level of acceptance and satisfaction. A professional committed

teacher gives equal chance and importance to all students at the right time to ensure optimum

level of achievement. A committed teacher acts as an active school-classroom manager, leader

and organizer of the group activities, builder of pupils‟ character and is often expected to

undertake and promote learning activities. It is the urge of a teacher to update, strengthen and

sharpen his professional competencies and to develop understanding and insight in different

aspects of a profession, punctuality, positive attitudes towards co-workers, enthusiasm, co-

operation, and honesty etc, which can be viewed as the examples of commitment to basic human

values.

21st Century skills are vital for success in today's rapidly changing world. By

emphasizing learning skills, literacy skills, and life skills, educational systems can prepare

students not only for academic achievement but also for lifelong success in their personal and

professional lives. These skills enable individuals to navigate complexities, embrace change, and

thrive in a globalized, digital society. 21st Century skills are essential for students to thrive in

today's complex, technology-driven, and rapidly changing world. For students to acquire these

skills, teachers themselves must be well-prepared and equipped with the knowledge, tools, and

24
pedagogical strategies to effectively impart them. Thus, teacher education plays a pivotal role in

the integration and promotion of 21st Century skills in the classroom.

1.11 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

Professional commitment and 21st Century skills are interconnected concepts that

influence each other significantly. Professional commitment refers to the dedication and loyalty

an individual has towards their profession, encompassing a sense of responsibility, enthusiasm,

and investment in their career. 21st Century skills are a set of knowledge, skills, work habits, and

character traits that are crucial for success in today's world, particularly in the areas of college

education, contemporary careers, and civic life. These skills are designed to help individuals

navigate the complexities of a rapidly changing, technology-driven global society. Hence the

statement of the problem is entitled as “Study on 21st Century Skills and professional

commitment of teachers”.

1.12 OPERATIONAL DEFINITION FOR THE TERMS.

Understanding the interplay between these two concepts is crucial for improving

employee well-being and organizational effectiveness. Hence the statement of the problem is

entitled as “Study on 21st Century skills and professional commitment of teachers”.

Professional Commitment:

Professional Commitment will mean teacher‟s psychological attachment to the school

and recognition of their work bond towards the school having a strong desire for professional

development by seeking all round development of pupils and hard work for their own

professional growth to attain school effectiveness.

21st Century Skills

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 21st Century skills encompass a wide range of abilities, traits, and competencies essential

for success in today's interconnected, technology-driven, and fast-evolving world. 21st Century

skills are crucial for preparing students to navigate and succeed in the modern world. These skills

are grouped into three main categories:

1. Learning Skills (The Four Cs):

 Critical Thinking: Analyzing and evaluating information to make informed

decisions.

 Creativity: Generating innovative ideas and solutions.

 Collaboration: Working effectively with others.

 Communication: Expressing ideas clearly and effectively.

2. Literacy Skills (IMT):

 Information Literacy: Ability to locate, evaluate, and use information.

 Media Literacy: Understanding and critically analyzing media content.

 Technology Literacy: Proficiency in using digital tools and understanding their

impact.

3. Life Skills (FLIPS):

 Flexibility: Adapting to new situations and challenges.

 Leadership: Guiding and inspiring others.

 Initiative: Taking charge and pursuing goals independently.

 Productivity: Managing time and resources effectively.

 Social Skills: Interacting effectively with others and demonstrating empathy.

Teachers

BT Assistants

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 Teachers are handling classes from 6th to 10th standards in Government, Government –

aided and Private schools in Tamil Nadu state.

Post – Graduate Teachers

Teachers are handling classes from 11th to 12th standards in Government, Government –

aided and Private schools in Tamil Nadu state.

1.13 OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY

1 To find out the level of 21st Century skills and its dimensions of teachers.

2. To find out the level of professional commitment of teachers.

3. To find out whether there is any significant difference in 21st Century skills of teachers with

respect to background variables such as in terms of

(a) gender,

(b) locality of school,

(c) school management,

(d) type of school

4. To find out whether there is any significant difference in professional commitment of teachers

with respect to background variables such as in terms of

(a) gender,

(b) locality of school,

(c) school management,

(d) type of school

5. To find out whether any significant association between teachers‟ school management and

their 21st Century skills

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6.To find out whether any significant association between teachers‟ school management and

their professional commitment

7. To find out the correlation between 21st Century skills of teachers and their professional

commitment

1.14 HYPOTHESES

1. The level of 21st Century skills of teachers is moderate.

2. The level of professional commitment of teachers is moderate.

1.15 NULL HYPOTHESIS

1. There is no significant difference in 21st Century skills of teachers with respect to gender

2. There is no significant difference in 21st Century skills of teachers with respect to locality of

school

3. There is no significant difference in 21st Century skills of teachers with respect to school

management

4. There is no significant difference in 21st Century skills of teachers with respect to type of

school

5. There is no significant difference in professional commitment of teachers with respect to

gender

6. There is no significant difference in professional commitment of teachers with respect to

locality of school

7. There is no any significant difference in professional commitment of teachers with respect to

school management

8. There is no significant difference in professional commitment of teachers with respect to type

of school

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9. There is no correlation between 21st Century skills and professional commitment of teachers.

1.16 LIMITATIONS OF THE STUDY

The present study has the following limitations.

(i) The study is limited to Namakkal, Salem and Karur districts.

(ii) It is confined to school teachers only.

(iii) The sample is limited to 300 teachers only.

(iv) The study examined three dimensions of 21st Century skills only.

(v) The study examined six dimensions of professional commitment of teachers only.

1.17 CHAPTERISATION

CHAPTER - I includes introduction about 21st Century skills set of knowledge, skills,

work habits, and character traits that are crucial for success in today's world, particularly in the

areas of college education, contemporary careers, and civic life across various dimensions such

as physical, emotional, mental, and social aspects of life. It typically involves individuals

reflecting on their own feelings, experiences, and perceptions related to their health and

happiness. 21st Century skills assessments can be valuable tools for individuals to monitor their

skills and make informed decisions about lifestyle choices, as well as for researchers and

professionals to understand population health trends and identify areas for intervention or

support.

CHAPTER - II includes introduction to review of related literature, definition,

importance of review of literature, objectives of review of literature, a review of research studies

conducted in India as well as abroad and conclusion.

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 CHAPTER - III includes about research methodology, method used in the study,

variables of the study, population of the study, sampling, stratified random sampling, samples for

the present study, tool for the study, questionnaire, rating scale, description of the tool, pilot

study, tool for the pilot study, sample for the pilot study, item analysis, reliability of the tool,

validity, content validity, tool for the final study, data gathering procedure, scoring procedure,

statistical technique used and conclusion.

CHAPTER - IV includes analysis and interpretation of the data and also includes tables

and figures to substantiate the results.

CHAPTER - V includes summary and conclusion. It also includes recommendations,

topic for further research and interpretation.

1.18 CONCLUSION

The present study focuses on Professional commitment and 21st Century skills are

interconnected concepts that influence each other significantly. Professional commitment refers

to the dedication and loyalty an individual has towards their profession, encompassing a sense of

responsibility, enthusiasm, and investment in their career. 21st Century skills are vital for success

in today's rapidly changing world. By emphasizing learning skills, literacy skills, and life skills,

educational systems can prepare students not only for academic achievement but also for lifelong

success in their personal and professional lives. Understanding the interplay between these two

concepts is crucial for improving employee skills and organizational effectiveness.

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