The rapid transformation of technology, communication, and work presents complex challenges for education systems around the globe. One of the most pressing challenges is ensuring equitable access to quality education for all people, which is a United Nations Global Goal. In 2022, the Thought Leadership Institute launched the Manifesting the Future of Education Convening and research to reveal the opportunities and risks inherent in The Future of Education. The Convening findings inspired us to craft a call to action—a Manifesto for the Future of Education—that establishes a vision for transforming education around the world while integrating the practice of coaching as a catalyst for positive change.
Reflections
Manifesting the Future of Education: Think, Learn, Transcend
Wisdom Weaver, Dr. José Miguel Justel shares his perspective on the June 2022 Convening and future aspirations for collaboration to reinvent education.
TLI student interns see positive transformation in the future of education
Interns Haley Cline and Michal Miller reflect on their work with the ICF Thought Leadership Institute and what they learned from the latest collection.
Insights
The quest for meaning at work begins by teaching lifelong learning in the classroom
People in increasing numbers are craving meaning and purpose at work. New insights gleaned from our Future of Education Convening indicate that adopting attitudes of lifelong learning in the classroom benefits students later in life as they navigate professional development.
Elevating low-tech knowledge can support diversity and equity among students
Our experts highlight the harmful consequences of technology overuse in the classroom. Instead, a balance of low-tech learning supports skills development and increases student exposure to diverse ways of thinking.
Social and emotional learning is vital to building a sustainable future
The learning environment shapes how students understand our interconnected world. An emphasis on partnership and connection will help young people foster a sustainable worldview.
Implementing pervasive learning in the classroom establishes future success
Pervasive learning includes formal, informal, and social learning approaches to develop well-rounded skills in the classroom. By teaching practical skills and social awareness alongside formal knowledge, students develop confidence and adaptability to ensure a sustainable future.
Embracing social transformation is key to enhancing education
Social transformation is needed to ensure students have access to quality education. The latest UNESCO report describes how a new social contract for education requires collaboration on a global level to meet the needs of the future.
Inequality is the chief barrier to providing quality education
Globally, socioeconomic factors continue to create gaps in education quality between rich and poor school districts. Emphasizing student voices and inclusive learning models promise to enhance quality education despite economic inequities.
Students are a forgotten stakeholder in education design
The future of technology, work, and environmental sustainability is rapidly evolving. Coaching can support the education system, empowering students to help create that future.
Higher education can promote a lifelong culture of sustainability
Coaches can help students who want to support environmental stewardship or practice ethical business to align goals with sustainable decision-making.
Student-centered learning teaches soft skills needed for the future of work
When teachers act as learning facilitators, students develop the vital skills to lead, experiment, and persevere in the classroom and life.
Local and global collaboration for education transformation
Societies must reimagine who is responsible for ensuring quality education and what role each person plays in this task. Evaluating and rebuilding education requires community engagement and collaboration at every level.
Digital inequality in education may worsen economic divides
Technology is so pervasive that children are expected to have digital literacy skills when they enter the workforce. These expectations fail to recognize that not all students have equal access to the hardware, internet connection, or expensive software programs needed to develop these skills.
Computers will never replace the role of classrooms in supporting student wellbeing
Skilled teachers use classrooms to inspire collaboration, foster community, and instill a sense of belonging. Classroom social and emotional benefits are not fully realized in a digital learning environment.
Environmental, Social, and Governance skills inspire students to become activators of change
In the future of work, students will need to identify interdependencies and connections between world systems. Schools can prepare the next generation with environmental, social, and governance skills to guide ethical and sustainable action in their lives.
‘Meta-skills of the future’ will help youth navigate a future of complexity and change
oft skills in the workplace, such as critical thinking, leadership, and adaptability, are in increasing demand. Integrating meta-skills in formal education will prepare the next generation to thrive in times of uncertainty.
Resources
How teachers can use a coaching approach to empower students in the classroom
A coaching approach reveals knowledge and resources through a process of self-discovery. Teachers can benefit from using coaching principles in the classroom to increase engagement and empower students in their learning.
How coaching students for sustainable action can connect student values to global initiatives
Coaches can help students who want to support environmental stewardship or practice ethical business standards to align goals with sustainable decision-making.
Multimedia
Convening Replay: Manifesting the Future of Education
The ICF Thought Leadership Institute hosted a Convening on Manifesting the Future of Education: Think, Learn, Transcend. Watch as 34 Wisdom Weavers explore opportunities to transform the global landscape of learning.
Manifesting the Future of Education: Olli-Pekka Heinonen
Olli-Pekka Heinonen, Director-General of the International Baccalaureate Organization, presented on Schools for the Next Generation (K-12).
Manifesting the Future of Education: Dr. Noah Sobe
Noah Sobe, Senior Program Officer at UNESCO, presented on the Reality of Digital Transformation in Education.
Manifesting the Future of Education: Dr. Jayne Fleener
Jayne Fleener, a Professor of Educational Leadership, Policy & Human Development at North Carolina State University, presented on Lifelong Learning for Self-Actualization and Work in the Future.