Parents and students - what to look for in an education

Mastering communication skills is essential.

A recent survey of employers found that:

• 80% of high school graduates have poor communication skills
• Only 10% of two-year and 24% of four-year college graduates are "excellently prepared" for work.

Source: management-issues.com

Here is more information about what you need to know and be able to do in order to master communication skills

The "Essential Elements of 21st Century Learning" can be found in a liberal arts education. The learning how to learn skills of the liberal arts forms a strong foundation upon which knowledge work can be built. Education should cover:

Core Subjects	Reading (English/Language Arts)
	Mathematics
	Science
	Social Studies (including History and Geography)
	World Languages
	Computer Skills
Tools	Information and Communication Technologies
	Audio, Video, and Other Media
	Next Generation Multi-media
Learning Skills	Information and Communication Skills
	Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills
	Interpersonal and Self-Directional Skills
Content	Global Awareness
	Financial, Economic, and Business Literacy
	Civic Literacy

College Students Be Aware:

1. Avoid lecture only courses - passive learning is out!
2. Don't regurgitate information - express your own ideas but base them on solid evidence.
3. Learn by doing - regular writing, speaking, debating are essential components of a 21st century learning experience.
4. Ask how learning connects to the real world - remember it's not only what you are learning but how you are learning.
5. Remember that the skills you learn in college should be useful in the continually-changing context of the 21st century workforce.