Greetings DCS Learners,

Welcome to the first edition of our Pulse On Pro-D (POP) newsletter!

Our aim with POP is to keep you informed about the latest trends, strategies and opportunities in the realm of professional development. Now more than ever, staying ahead of the curve with relevant skills and knowledge is crucial for professional success.

We recently surveyed our community of professional learners to understand your needs, aspirations and motivations for further education. While some are seeking career changes, the majority of participants expressed a desire to enhance their skills within their current roles. Our learners’ dedication to growth within their respective fields is admirable but it is also smart, especially in light of the continuously evolving job market.

The World Economic Forum's Future of Jobs Report 2023 estimates that nearly a quarter of all jobs (23 per cent) are poised to undergo significant changes over the next five years. Technological advancements, digitalization and sustainability are key drivers of this transformation. While certain roles may diminish, macro-trends such as the green transition of businesses and artificial intelligence will continue to create many new jobs and alter existing roles.

Herb Kelleher, the co-founder of Southwest Airlines, famously advocated for prioritizing attitude over skills in hiring. It’s a philosophy gaining traction in the Fourth Industrial Revolution where the blurring of lines between people and digital technology, underscores the importance of traits like curiosity and lifelong learning. The skills most valued in the future workplace, such as analytical thinking, creativity and digital literacy, are nurtured through ongoing continuing education.

Despite facing challenges and uncertainties, our recent survey revealed a prevailing sense of optimism among our learners. This optimism reflects the resilience and determination of our learners and emphasizes the benefits of collaborative learning. Amidst rapid workforce changes, learning is about more than just acquiring new information; it's about meaning-making and skill refinement in a social context. Skills such as empathy and active listening are as crucial as technical expertise.

Regardless of what is coming next, professionals engaged in continuing professional development will be better equipped to adapt to changing job requirements and emerging trends. As we launch this new resource, I encourage you to actively engage with POP and to share your thoughts, insights and suggestions. After all, this newsletter is as much yours as it is ours. 

Thank you for being part of the POP community.

Warm regards,

Jo-Anne Clarke
Dean, Division of Continuing Studies

 

• Posted April 15, 2024