As the Founder and CEO of JetLearn, I am passionate about helping school children develop the skills they need to succeed in the jobs of tomorrow. The rapid growth of AI and automation is transforming the job market, and it is crucial that we prepare our children for a future in which these technologies play a significant role; rather than being a threat to traditional jobs, we should view AI as an augmentative tool that those in future roles can deploy in order to be more effective at what they do. With that in mind, it helps to prepare school children for this shift and teach them the skills they need for the jobs of tomorrow:
Computational thinking
Computational thinking is a problem-solving skill that involves breaking down complex problems into smaller, more manageable parts. It is a key skill for AI because it helps children understand how algorithms work and how to develop and refine them; by teaching children to think computationally, we can help them become more effective problem-solvers and prepare them for careers in a wide range of industries.
Data literacy
AI is driven by big data, and it is essential that children learn how to read, interpret, and analyse data. Data literacy involves understanding how data is collected, how it can be used to solve problems, and how to communicate findings effectively. This skill will be particularly important in fields that require AI to process and operationalise large amounts of data – with human guidance, of course.
Programming
Programming is the process of creating software, applications, and other computer programs. It is a fundamental skill for AI, as it is used to develop and refine algorithms. Only by teaching children how to program can we help them become more innovative and creative problem-solvers, and prepare them for careers in fields such as software engineering and computer science.
Critical thinking
While computers are capable of processing information more efficiently than the human brain in many scenarios, it is up to humans to make critical business decisions in organisations, considering the implications of their choices for both the organisation and its people. Developing critical thinking skills is therefore crucial for schoolchildren to become effective problem-solvers and prepare for AI careers. They must learn how to analyse and evaluate information, identify potential biases and errors in data, and make informed decisions that take into account the broader implications of their choices.
Interpersonal skills
Artificial Intelligence may drive jobs of the future, but humans will still be a critical part of any processes. Interpersonal skills, such as communication, teamwork, and leadership, are essential for success in any job. They are particularly important in AI because they help children work effectively with others and communicate complex ideas to different audiences; by teaching children to develop their soft skills, we can help them become more effective collaborators and prepare them for careers in a wide range of industries.
