Despite spending seemingly interminable days at school or doing homework, teens aren’t necessarily learning everything they need for happy, productive lives. Some may even argue that an emphasis on academia overlooks the most important life skills. Melanie Pinola put together a terrific list of Top 10 Skills We Wish Were Taught In School, But Usually Aren’t that is worth a look. Here are her top 10:
1. How To Apply For Jobs And Handle Interviews
2. Mental Health
3. Basic Self-Defense
4. Negotiation Skills
5. Survival Skills
6. Basic Money Management
7. Study Skills (Or Learning How To Learn)
8. Time Management Techniques
9. Speed Reading
10. Computer Science
Of course, we work with students on some of these essential skills while our partners cover others. And some of these skills are way outside our scope of service. I generally agree with the author’s findings, but find little evidence that Speed Reading has any validity as a way to actually learn.
How about you? Do you agree with this list or think something important was omitted?
Mike Bergin