April 28, 2023 21st CCLC and JAKAPA: A Step By Step Guide
Youth Development and 21st CCLC Grant Programs Youth development is one of the four critical areas in any 21st CCLC grant program, and JAKAPA can
Dr. Lisa Riegel
May 25, 2023
Soft skills are more important than ever
As artificial intelligence becomes embedded in the workforce, the skills needed for success will transition. McKinsey predicts that AI and robotic automation will require up to 375 million people worldwide to change their occupations or learn new skills by 2030. Traditionally, students are trained with technical and academic skills, but if the AI programs can synthesize knowledge, solve problems and complete technical tasks, these skills will become less important. No job will be untouched. AI can do many of the tasks a lawyer, nurse, teacher, mechanic and artist can do.
Soft skills are the skills for the future
So what are the skills for the future? Soft skills. Dale Carnegie reports that employers need to align their training strategies with the soft skills that will be increasingly important in an era where AI is integrated. Soft skills essential for success in AI.
In an industry survey, Carnegie found that as automation increases, nearly three quarters of respondents cited soft skills as more important than hard skills. While people recognize these skills are critical, less than half of the respondents reported they have received any soft skills training. 64% of leaders want more creativity, but only 30% of respondents have received creativity skills training in the past three years. Other significant gaps include critical thinking (only 27% have received training) and emotional intelligence (only 19% have received training).
Soft skills predict academic outcomes, life satisfaction, and much more..
Schools currently focus on academic and technical skills, and if they do not pivot to prioritize soft skills, they will find their students are not prepared for their futures. JAKAPA can help. We measure, train and track 32 soft skills in five domains: self-management, innovation, social engagement, emotional resilience and cooperation. Because many school report cards focus on credentialing and achievement, schools fail to focus on a strategic development system for soft skills. This has huge negative consequences.
Soft skills predict academic outcomes, life satisfaction, peer quality and acceptance and a myriad of other positive indicators.
Focusing on soft skills improves outcomes
By focusing on soft skills, schools can improve their academic and discipline data and increase student readiness. Call JAKAPA today to schedule a demo and learn how to make sure you are preparing students for the future world of work.
