Here are 4 key things educators should know to help address the digital skills shortage:
1. Be aware of high-demand roles and skills
Keep up-to-date on digits jobs like data analysts, engineers, cybersecurity experts that employers urgently need to fill.
2. Focus on transferable competencies
Emphasize 'timeless' aptitudes like problem-solving, collaboration, communication over specific tools.
3. Link curriculum to real-world needs
Consult industry on skill gaps and tailor programs/courses to help students meet them.
4. Champion STEAM, not just STEM
Integrate arts and humanities to boost creativity and well-rounded thinking crucial for tech innovation.
5. Make computer science foundational
Given pervasiveness of tech, make coding a core competency like math or writing.
6. Encourage lifelong learning
Instill adaptability and love of learning to help students skill-up continuously post-graduation.
7. Leverage alternative pathways
Increase access to tech careers through bootcamps, online courses, apprenticeships.
8. Spotlight diverse role models
Highlight women, minorities excelling in tech to inspire untapped talent.
Equipping students with both human and digital skills, while guiding them to credentialing options, can help resolve dire talent shortages.
1. Be aware of high-demand roles and skills
Keep up-to-date on digits jobs like data analysts, engineers, cybersecurity experts that employers urgently need to fill.
2. Focus on transferable competencies
Emphasize 'timeless' aptitudes like problem-solving, collaboration, communication over specific tools.
3. Link curriculum to real-world needs
Consult industry on skill gaps and tailor programs/courses to help students meet them.
4. Champion STEAM, not just STEM
Integrate arts and humanities to boost creativity and well-rounded thinking crucial for tech innovation.
5. Make computer science foundational
Given pervasiveness of tech, make coding a core competency like math or writing.
6. Encourage lifelong learning
Instill adaptability and love of learning to help students skill-up continuously post-graduation.
7. Leverage alternative pathways
Increase access to tech careers through bootcamps, online courses, apprenticeships.
8. Spotlight diverse role models
Highlight women, minorities excelling in tech to inspire untapped talent.
Equipping students with both human and digital skills, while guiding them to credentialing options, can help resolve dire talent shortages.
