Today, in the context of globalization and the technology explosion, it is extremely important to train human resources appropriately and actively to adapt to new professions. Therefore, educational reform is highly necessary. Many Vietnamese parents have become aware of changes in educational trends and have begun to invest in their children to learn 21st-century skills. So what are 21st-century skills?

What is the current trend of modern education in the world?

According to a prediction by the World Economic Forum, by 2025, humans will only occupy about 48% of the workforce, while machines and algorithms account for 52%. Therefore, traditional educational methods that only focus on imparting knowledge are no longer appropriate. Instead, methods that cannot be replaced by machines, such as those that focus on thinking and skills, are increasingly being emphasized. This is the core of modern education, aiming to train human resources that are ready to adapt to any changes in the world.

The world education system is changing day by day

In the US, educational methods are constantly being renewed and updated, especially in terms of skills and practical applications. Since 2007, American teachers have required 4th-grade students to get practical experience in at least 50% of the lessons in class and report results. That was very early compared to other countries.

In Finland - a country with an education that is always at the top of the world, the core basic education program in 2016 focused on training the foundation of lifelong learning for students. The program also pays attention to teaching children life skills and self-improvement - essential skills of the 21st century.

How important are 21st-century skills?

It is predicted that in the next decade, millions of workers will have to change careers due to the impact of 4.0 technology, especially the 3A model (AI: Artificial Intelligence, Automation and Analytics). Therefore, equipping 21st-century skills is vitally important. 

According to a study from the Brookings Institution on the prevalence of 21st-century skills, communication and creativity play the most important role, followed by problem-solving and critical thinking skills. Thus, every citizen needs to be equipped with 21st-century skills to meet the change of the times.

21st Century skills

Currently, many educational institutions and education systems in the US are applying the model of 21st-century skills education after more than a decade of formation. This educational model is oriented to help students be provided with necessary skills for the 21st century. 

So what exactly are 21st-century skills? According to the definition of the Assessment and Teaching of 21st Century Skills at the University of Melbourne (Australia), 21st-century skills include 4 main groups of soft skills:

- Thinking skills include creativity, critical thinking, problem-solving, decision-making, and lifelong learning.

- Working skills such as communication skills and teamwork.

- Skills in using working tools such as general knowledge of information and communication technology.

- Skills for living in a global society, including civic consciousness, life and career, personal and social responsibility.

Thus, parents should pay attention to teaching children life skills right now so that they can have a more open future towards a global context.

Become a global citizen with Northstar American School (NAS) curriculum

Applying a program taught 100% in English and high-qualified teachers from the United States, NAS's curriculum helps students master languages, grasp a variety of knowledge, and equip themselves with essential skills of the world. This is the core foundation for them to master the power of world knowledge and open up opportunities to develop, integrate and change their lives in the future.

- NAS's curriculum meets rigorous and comprehensive U.S. standards and at the same time continually being improved to help students learn better.

- Lesson activities are all designed to encourage advanced thinking. They mostly focus on life application and/or skills needed in the age of globalization.

Studying at NAS is a smart investment for learning when the cost is equal to learning a foreign language but the quality of the program is equivalent to an accredited international school. Furthermore, after completing the program at NAS, students will be awarded an international certificate recognized by many American universities and around the world.

For more information about Northstar American School, visit https://www.northstarschool.us

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