The Fourth Industrial Revolution reveals that ‘half of today’s work activities will be automated by 2055’. To meet the demands of the future, we need to revive some facts today:
- What skills, knowledge, attitudes and values do students need to develop and shape their world?
- How can the education system effectively build knowledge, skills, attitudes and values?
This article discusses the innovative skills needed to succeed in the challenges of the future schooling path.
The need for future schooling
This is a critical time for new educational models in line with the needs of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
Many education systems are still heavily dependent on passive teaching methods in countries with developed economies. It is imperative to move from direct instruction and recollection to interactive practices that promote critical thinking and innovative skills in today’s creative economy.
Innovative skills
Students need innovative learning to succeed in this competitive and complex dynamic world in today’s information age. It is the basis of problem-solving and helps students adapt to the dynamics of the complex world surrounding them.
Innovation is not just about using gadgets and learning fancy concepts of technology. Instead, it is about doing things differently in an innovative way. It requires high-level skills to solve problems and contribute to critical thinking. Therefore, our modern education needs to focus more on relevant skill-building practices in preparation for the challenging future of the new generation.
Importance of innovation in education
The importance of innovation in education can be an abstract concept and can mean different things to different audiences. However, innovation in education has genuine and tangible benefits. Innovation cannot be tested or categorised, but it can be rooted and created in students. Innovation in education encourages students and teachers to use all the tools to research, explore and unravel something new.
21st century learning
Modern-day education and its objectives are not limited to developing basic literacy skills. To be successful in today’s global workforce, students need to have technical literacy and high-quality thinking skills.
Learning and innovative skills are increasingly being recognised as skills that differentiate students ready for the increasingly complex life and work environment in the 21st century. 21st century skills are more important to students. In addition to providing a successful learning framework, these skills help students thrive in the changing world where learning continues. Students need to focus on creativity, critical thinking, communication and collaboration to prepare for the future schooling.
Virtual classroom
Virtual classrooms are created using virtual learning platforms that help teachers provide quality online learning to students. Virtual classrooms are impressionist conventional class settings where students interact in a breakout room. Students use file-sharing tools and get instant feedback from their teachers. Usually, these e-learning classrooms use video conferencing, slide shows, online whiteboards and more to create a collaborative environment.
Below are some of the major virtual learning benefits:
- Flexibility and accessibility – This allows students to attend classes according to their convenient schedule and attend asynchronous pre-recorded classes.
- Learning fast and with priority – Students can schedule classes at their own pace and have easy access to shared study materials.
- Efficient learning- It removes logistical barriers. Additional costs, such as commuting, are saved compared to a traditional school.
- Quick Turn around – Online media helps students get instant feedback on their assignments.
- Enhance Technology Skills – Students engage in modern learning platforms that deal with the latest digital trends and applications. Virtual learning platforms allow students to learn technology trends and develop 21st-century skills.
Four Cs
The ‘four C’s’ of 21st-century education act as catalysts for future school education.
These are Critical Thinking, Communication, Collaboration and Creativity are the guiding principles behind our digital literacy goals for students.
Preparation of innovative skills
- Support creativity and ingenuity
Creativity is one of the in-demand attributes of today’s workforce. Therefore, we must adequately introduce students to new and innovative ways of thinking. Organise more and more activities that require creative thinking.
Teach children the importance of being creative. Encourage out-of-the-box thinking, and appreciate the creative flow of students’ ideas.
- Add an element of creativity to your teaching/communication
Add creative elements (such as visual presentations with graphics, etc.) to your teaching to promote creativity and innovation in communication and practice new teaching styles. Present materials/suggestions in a way that students like and they can build confidence in adopting creative and innovative thinking processes in their daily life.
- Develop skills through activities
Prepare students to encourage new-age skill building for innovation. Develop problem-solving, critical thinking, and imagination and creativity core skills in students through innovative culture and activities to enhance skills in the classroom. Make sure the learning environment is always positive and welcoming for each student.
- Encourage hands-on activities
To nurture innovative thinking, it is important to encourage curious and questioning minds and allow more hands-on activities. Attractive activities such as improving biological puzzles, sowing seeds to understand germination, and understanding chemical composition through experiments help to develop conceptual understanding. Allowing students to draw inquiries and draw conclusions stimulates their creativity.
- Create new opportunities
Education beyond the four walls of the school affects more young students. Allowing them to participate in campaigns, campaigns, social work and even leisure activities motivates them to introspect from different perspectives. They can also get a lot of exposure in real life by participating in community work or activities.
- Allow flexibility
Students who are free to study in their flexible schedules think like novices and creators. The space of innovative learning offers students ways to think endlessly and try to solve problems. Flexible learning schedules provide students with a positive and independent learning environment and provide them with personalised suggestions to strengthen their understanding of the subject.
Wrapping Up
Learning and innovation skills increasingly prepare students for complex life and work environments in the 21st century. Creativity, communication, critical thinking and collaboration are essential to prepare students for the future schooling. 21K School is one of India’s best Online Schools and the first online-only school. We have achieved this feat by focusing on the holistic development of our students.
