Why Practical Skills in Education Matter for Future Success
How we view education is changing. More and more, parents are questioning whether following the traditional path of school, college, and a degree is enough to prepare their kids for the real world. A fresh survey by BrightCHAMPS highlights these shifts and stresses the growing importance of practical skills for future success.
Formal Education: Not Enough Anymore
According to the survey data, 41% of parents worldwide are starting to think that just sticking to the classic educational pathway isn’t cutting it anymore for securing their children’s futures. This indicates a significant shift in perceptions. It’s becoming clear that in a fast-changing and competitive job market, just having a degree might not be enough to land a good job or build a successful career.
The Importance of Skill-Building
An even larger percentage of parents, 65% to be exact, believe that practical skills need to be included in their child’s education for them to succeed. This shows that there is a strong agreement on giving kids a more rounded education—one that pairs academic learning with real-world skills.
- Parents want an educational model that combines knowledge with hands-on skills.
- This integrated approach can make kids more adaptable and better prepared for various challenges they might face in the future.
What Skills Are Considered Essential?
When asked which skills will be most important in the next decade, 33% of parents pinpointed Robotics and Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning (AI/ML). This finding suggests that parents understand how vital tech skills are becoming. As industries continue to evolve and incorporate more advanced technology, children who are well-versed in these areas will likely have a distinct advantage.
Financial Concerns
Money matters are also a top concern for parents; 46% worry about their child’s financial security, especially the value of expensive college degrees in today’s unstable job environment. With rising tuition fees and uncertain job prospects, the question many parents are asking is: “Will a traditional degree offer the same financial benefits it once did?”
The Balanced Approach
For these reasons, parents are pushing for a balanced educational approach. Here’s what that looks like:
- Integrating traditional academic learning with practical skill-building.
- Allowing students to gain theoretical knowledge alongside real-world skills.
This blend can fill the gap between education and employment, giving children a solid foundation to thrive in whatever career path they choose.
Examples of Practical Skills in Education
So, what are some practical skills that can be introduced alongside academic learning? Here are a few:
- Financial Literacy: Understanding how money works, including budgeting, saving, and investing.
- Technical Skills: Coding, digital marketing, or even basic computer skills to keep up with technological advancements.
- Communication Skills: Effective communication, whether through speech or writing, is crucial in every field.
- Problem-solving and Critical Thinking: These skills help in making decisions and solving issues efficiently, both in professional and personal life.
Future Skill Sets for Success
There’s also a push for more specific areas of learning:
- AI and Robotics: As mentioned, skills in these areas are seen as increasingly important.
- Environmental Literacy: Understanding sustainability and ecological impact is becoming crucial in many industries.
- Health and Wellness: Knowledge about mental and physical health can be rewarding both personally and professionally.
Conclusion: Adapt and Evolve
In summary, education today needs to be more than just classroom learning. A balanced approach that includes practical skills alongside traditional academics can provide a more comprehensive foundation. This model doesn’t just prepare children for their first job; it equips them for a lifetime of careers in a world that is constantly changing.
This shift towards incorporating practical skills in education is a response to the growing needs of a modern, dynamic job market. It represents a progressive step toward creating well-rounded individuals who are not just academically competent but also practically skilled.
Deepika 
Mehek