Future Demands Skills

Students are the future of our country and we as educators are constantly working to prepare them for the real world. We no longer reside in the era of learning through books and giving traditional examinations. This modern era demands change in our education system. The more the education system will grow more students will be adequately prepared for the future. So in other words the relationship between students and the education system is directly proportional to each other. Now the question arises is……. what sort of education or skill set are required for the world ahead? The world ahead of us demands change and I think today’s students will need a variety of skills. These skills solely doesn’t depend on the education system, students also require help and guidance from their parents and guardians. Some of the skills which I think are very important for our current and future students are discussed below.

Being Creative

Creativity opens the mind, it doesn’t work on the stereotypical methods. It is not confined to childhood games, it is a multidisciplinary tool that evolves on its own. It motivates kids to learn more innovatively, deepens understanding and gives them freedom of expression. Some creative projects must be included in our curriculums. These projects will help students to learn and think in their own ways according to their pace. This will not only make their class interesting but also it will help students to learn more. In other words, creativity improves both thinking skills and content learning. The future world asks for freedom of exploration and creativity allows students to explore in their own ways. Our students learn what they see in their educators, so now my question goes to the educators… Are we creative enough, does creativity still resides in our own mind?

Encourage Teamwork

We all know that every child is the same yet different in their own ways. And the collaborative work of these children results in effective teamwork. Teamwork plays a vital role in the development of students’ communication skills, listening skills, leadership skills etc. It is considered as a fundamental skill in which students collectively work towards a particular goal. This skill helps them throughout their lives to effectively achieve goals. In group projects or group work students tends to share knowledge with each other. The education system must prioritize the use of group work in classrooms. This attribute of education will help kids to inculcate problem-solving and critical thinking in themselves. During teamwork, students will face problems and with the help of the teacher and their group members, they will learn to solve problems and think from different angles. This will enhance the critical thinking and problem-solving ability of students.

Tech-life Balance

Today’s world is highly inclined towards technological advancements. The learning of the latest technology is very important for our future and present generations. Nowadays students and teachers are using tablets, laptops, mobile phones etc. to share knowledge. Many educational applications are available to help students and teachers. These applications are a package of information, entertainment and engagement. Also, students are learning and connecting through social media. The world ahead of us demands the use of these technologies. Yet, I think we need to teach balance between using technology and using traditional methods for entertainment, connectivity and learning. As observed even adults are busy in their technological world that they forget to communicate with each other. This habit of being engaged in technology is being transferred to our younger generations as well. I am not saying that being tech-friendly is harmful but there has to be a limit to this use. The education system is including the use of technology at a faster pace but they must not forget the importance of traditional methods of learning. Hence, maintaining a balance is important and educators should include both methods of teaching (technological and traditional). Also, the students must be taught the effects of being addicted to gadgets. Self-regulatory tools are also available which we can work on. I believe this shall help students to learn the importance of tech-life balance.

Learning Outside The Classroom

Learning is an ongoing process that is not dependent on the place in which we are present. In other words, learning is not confined to schools, a student can learn at his home, in a playground, on a family trip or even on normal Sunday outings. The skill of learning outside the classroom will prepare students for life beyond classrooms. Students must be taught to practice their learning and connect it with their day-to-day activities. The teachers should try to teach them new concepts by linking them with real-life experiences. This practice will help students to even learn outside their classroom. This link will create a permanent memory in their minds. Through this kids will explore and learn more. This skill promotes the habit of asking questions and engaging more with the things that are available around them. The concept of learning outside the classroom provides a sense of awareness among them and enhances their observations skills. The future demands for self-awareness and this skill can be produced by enforcing learning outside the classroom concept in our education system.