Opinion
The need of the hour is to broaden the scope of learning
The rapid evolution of technology has profoundly transformed our way of living, from the tech savvy living spaces to the structured organisations, the changes are evident. The continual technological innovations have simultaneously overhauled the existing job market, bringing about massive changes i
The rapid evolution of technology has profoundly transformed our way of living, from the tech-savvy living spaces to the structured organisations, the changes are evident. The continual technological innovations have simultaneously overhauled the existing job market, bringing about massive changes in the organisational structure and skill requirements. Many of the once coveted jobs are slowly becoming redundant and many unheard ones are sprouting up in every nook and corner of the globe. Today we are witnessing the most unpredictable job market ever seen in history, with major disruptions in key employment level, skills or pattern of recruitment.
The need of the hour is to broaden the scope of learning and bring about value-added changes in the early childhood curricula to ingrain basic skills in the students at the school level. A wider knowledge in areas like critical and creative thinking, communication and life skills, adaptive thinking, etc can strengthen them to cope with the uncertain future.
Making Your Presence Felt:
Presenting thoughts and ideas clearly still remains the age-old adage. In sync with this digital age, effective communication through technology has become the new norm, which is apt to gain a much wider momentum in the next few years, with more sophisticated technologies. To flow with the tide, apart from being more tech-savvy, the focus should be on developing soft skills like writing and speaking to cater to a global audience. As most of the communications will be virtual, it becomes imperative for students to make their presence felt, speaking impeccable English, confidently and smartly. Body language, gestures, eye contact, voice modulation, diction and to the point communication will give an extra edge. Communicating through grammatically correct messages with impressive and precise writings, applicable for a global audience is one of the core skills which students need to inculcate. Not every child possesses this skill, but every child can acquire this skill through rigorous practice and application to put his thoughts and ideas in a concise manner.
Creative and Critical Thinking:
The future workforce is going to face an unprecedented critical situation that will demand carefully designed solutions to handle the difficulties. The ability to think critically, creatively and innovatively will be an indispensable tool for them. Students should make a habit of learning how to make decisions and solve critical problems with agility in their day to day activities. They should develop an ability to think analytically, self-introspect and address issues creatively, simultaneously apply them in real-life situations.
Adaptive Thinking:
In the coming years, a trans-disciplinary approach for a solution will be required to address the complex issues that will crop up in multifarious ways. This would require building social intelligence skills to collaborate with a wider group of people from diversified backgrounds and understand their emotional quotient to address the issues in a collateral manner. Students also need to strengthen their level of understanding to critically assess and address problems thinking from a larger perspective and taking into account the cultural and emotional sensitivity of the global market. By expanding the mindset to take advantage of different approaches towards learning and adapting technology will built in a wider level of understanding.
Strengthening Knowledge Base:
A well-rounded education with a University degree or a specialised degree can be complemented with relevant short time courses offered online or trainings to enhance the expertise. It will be viable and wise to invest in trainings and courses after identifying the requisite skill essential for getting recognition by potential employers. A deep understanding of one specific area along with a general idea on a broader range of subjects will heighten the chances of employment.
Life Skills:
In the technology-intensive global village, greater inner strength and willpower will be necessary to find oneself a firm foothold. A positive attitude, valuing others, self-introspection and future planning can minimise most of the challenges. The future workforce should also focus more on braving to take initiatives, displaying leadership traits or creating a personal brand. Developing innovative and effective strategies to cope with the rising demands will ensure a healthy life for the next gen work force.
About the author:
Dr. Bijaya K. Sahoo is an eminent Edupreneur who firmly believes in enriching society through the holistic grooming of a new generation of leaders. He holds to his credit a series of successful educational endeavors like SAI International School, SAI Angan, SAI International College of Commerce and SAI International Residential School.