21st Century Skills — Preparing Students for a Global Future

As parents, we are consistently advised by educators and workforce experts that our children must develop stronger 21st century skills. Without these essential competencies, students may struggle to participate effectively in the global economy and may not be adequately prepared for college and future careers.

Hanover Research analyzed six major educational frameworks including The Partnership for 21st Century Skills, Tony Wagner’s Seven Survival Skills, The Metiri Group’s enGauge Framework, Iowa Core 21st Century Skills, Connecticut State Department of Education Framework, and ATC21S.

Four Foundational Skill Areas

These skills are highly valued by employers and higher education institutions and naturally reinforce one another.

“More than technological expertise, 21st century skills refer to content knowledge, literacies, and proficiencies that prepare individuals to meet the challenges and opportunities of today’s world.”

Additional Critical Skills

“The driving force for the 21st century is the intellectual capital of citizens. Political, social, and economic progress will be possible only if the intellectual potential of youth is developed today.”