Globalization of the World

In his book, The World Is Flat A Brief History of the Twenty-First Century, Thomas Friedman discusses the notion that we are living in one world that is interdependent. He discusses globalization and how this is changing how business is conducted.  He identifies world flatteners including work flow software, supply chaining, open-out- and in-sourcing, and how essential it is for Americans to get on board.  When we look at 21^st Century Workplace skills, (Daniel Pink is one of the leading experts) we find four identified skill clusters that young people will need in this flattened world:

“Digital-age literacy, which includes the various competencies expected in a 21^st century workplace.

Basic literacy	Scientific literacy
Technological literacy	Economic literacy
Visual literacy	Information literacy
Cultural literacy	Global awareness (an understanding of how nations, individuals, groups, and economies are interconnected and how they relate to each other

Inventive thinking, which includes the ability to think outside the box

Adaptability and managing complexity	Self-direction
Curiosity	Creativity
Risk Taking	Higher-order thinking and sound reasoning
Adaptability and managing complexity	Self-direction

Effective communication, which is the ability to clearly communicate with a wide range of audiences

Teaming and collaboration	Interpersonal skills
Personal responsibility	Social and civic responsibility
Interactive communication

High productivity, which will be a requirement of success in the 21^st Century

Prioritizing, planning, and managing for results	Effective use of real-world tools
Ability to produce relevant, high-quality products[1]

After-school must work with young people to help them develop an understanding of both globalization and 21^st Century Workplace skills, and develop the ability to incorporate this understanding and set of skills into a successful future.

---

[1] 21^st Century Workplace:  Skills for Success.  http://www.learningaccount.net/Course_files/T21C001_050.htm

Consult 4 Kids is here to help you created a high-quality expanded learning program. Contact us at support@consultfourkids.com