In an era that is characterized by accelerated change, overwhelming complexity and tremedous competition, one must be equiped with the right skills to be accommodated. But what are some of these skills that one should perfect in order to stay relevant in the world today.
Well core skills, sometimes referred to as deep learning skills or 21st century learning skills, are the essential skills young people need to be fully prepared for life and work in a global economy
The British Council through its Connecting Classrooms program highlighted six essential skills that every young person should have for them to stay important to the well being of the world. These are the skills
1. Critical thinking and problem solving skills.
Promoting self-directed thinking that produces new and innovative ideas and solves problems; reflecting critically on learning experiences and processes and making effective decisions.
2. Communication and collaboration.
Fostering effective communication (orally and in writing); actively listening to and engaging with others in diverse and multilingual environments, and understanding verbal and non-verbal communication; developing the ability to work in diverse international teams, including learning from and contributing to the learning of others, assuming shared responsibility, co-operating, leading, delegating and compromising to producing new and innovative ideas and solutions.
3. Creativity and Imagination.
Promoting economic and social entrepreneurialism; imagining and pursuing novel ideas; judging value; developing innovation and curiosity.
4. Citizenship.
Developing active, globally aware citizens who have the skills, knowledge and motivation to address issues of human and environmental sustainability and work towards a fairer world in a spirit of mutual respect and open dialogue; developing an understanding of what it means to be a citizen of their own country and their own country’s values.
5. Digital literacy.
Developing the skills to discover, acquire and communicate knowledge and information in a globalized economy; using technology to reinforce, extend and deepen learning through international collaboration.
6. Student leadership and personal development.
Recognizing the importance of honesty and empathy; recognizing others’ needs and safety; fostering perseverance, resilience and self-confidence; exploring leadership, self-regulation and responsibility, personal health and wellbeing; career and life skills; learning to learn and life long learning.
So as you go through school, endevour to reflect on these skills to ascertain your level of growth in them. It is always good to be prepared for an opportunity and have none than have an opportunity that you are not prepared for. Good Luck as you build for the future
Adapted from an original article entitled "21st Century Core-Skills" from www.schoolsedge.org
