The Assessment of 21st-Century Skills in Community College Career and Technician Education Programs: Louise Yarnall and Jane Ostrander

Community colleges have an extensive history of training technicians (Cohen & Brawer, 2002), but new 21st-century technical fields such as biotechnology, forensics, and environmental science call for new models of technician preparation. Traditionally, career and technical education (CTE) has emphasized hands-on training in basic procedures (Lynch, 2000). The new fields of the 21st century blend hands-on skills with two other elements: the application of advanced concepts from mathematics and science, and coordinated teamwork with professionals from multiple disciplines. To keep pace with these changes, community college educators are transforming CTE programs so students can engage in 21st-century professional activities that require interdisciplinary problem solving, teamwork, and strong communication skills.