Business and Economy 08 Jun 2007 11:26 am
Life-long learning and global competitiveness
At a recent Governor’s Council for Labor and Economic Growth meeting, the current state of education was discussed. It is a critical issue to ensuring the country’s continued market leadership and the overall health of the economy as well as the American workforce.
Interesting statistics reveal the speed at which technology and information are evolving—and the challenge that we face in maintaining a global leadership position. These statistics were pulled from “Shift Happens,” a short video compiled by Scott McLeod of the University of Minnesota and Karl Fisch, a thought leader and educator at Arapahoe High School.
- 1.5 exabytes of new information will be developed this year.
- In 2013, a supercomputer will exist that will exceed the capabilities of the human brain; and it will only cost $1000.
- In 2049, the $1000 computer will exceed computational abilities of the human race.
These facts support the conclusions of the New Commission on the Skills of the American Workforce by the National Center on Education and the Economy. In Dec, the New Commission on the Skills of the American Workforce unveiled its recommendations for changing the American education system to meet the demands of the 21st century economy.
The Commission’s findings include the idea that “leadership does not depend on technology alone. It depends on a deep vein of creativity that is constantly renewing itself.” It calls for a commitment to improving education, K-16 as well as life-long learning, to maintain competitiveness in the global market.
It suggests that government support education programs for working adults. It calls for the creation of Personal Competitiveness Accounts, enabling everyone to get the continuing education and training they will need throughout their work lives.
According to the report, the current standard of American living is in jeopardy. Knowledge is power, and knowledge is the key to maintaining global competitiveness. Creating a culture where both businesses and individuals value life-long learning should be a shared goal and focus.
Posted by Jenn
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