Coding and Public Speaking: Old Soft Skills For A New Challenging Digital World

In a world that evolves at an unprecedented pace, the realm of education finds itself undergoing profound changes. The conventional educational model is no longer enough to prepare students for the challenges of the 21st century [1]. On one hand, technology seems to render much of the knowledge that was crucial in the past obsolete, and there is also a recurring need to teach the use of specific software/hardware from an early stage, be it in school or uni- versity. On the other hand, it is evident that the same technology, when presented randomly or superficially, or when it is informally learned outside of educational institutions, leads to a depletion of essential and cross-cutting skills. These skills are not only crucial for professions demanded by the market and society, but they are also cru- cial in everyday life and for personal success. The outcome is the emergence of disparities that transcend the level of formal education, particularly in schools focused on classical disciplines. As an antidote to this risky situation, and in line with the holistic approach advocated by the theme of this panel, we propose, by way of examples and case studies, two areas of important cross-cutting skills. The first area is coding, not only as a standalone discipline but also proposed across all disciplines, as it is now the lingua franca of the digital age, playing a pivotal role [2]. In a world increasingly governed by technology, under- standing how to code is akin to possessing the keys to unlock countless doors of opportunity. This skill goes beyond mere computer programming; it nurtures problem-solving abilities, creativity, and adaptability, skills that are in- valuable in driving innovative solutions [3]. The second area, almost a counterpart to the first, focuses on the natural communication skills of human beings. Communication has also undergone radical changes with the proliferation of social platforms and technologies that mediate interpersonal relationships, including educational relationships. Fostering public speaking skills enhances an individual’s capacity to express thoughts effectively and cultivates self-assuredness, a crucial trait in both per- sonal and professional life [4]. These two competencies are a mix of theoretical and practical in nature and must be possessed primarily by teach- ers. Challenges in both areas, such as understanding the profound nature of media and rhetorical-communicative skills, stem from the lack of communication between disciplinary areas and a hierarchical ranking entrenched in our educational system. Technical knowledge and communicative competence are considered somewhat “infe- rior.” By focusing on these cross-cutting skills in education, our work aspires to forge a comprehensive educational framework that molds students into well-rounded, capable individuals, equipped to tackle the complexities of our rapidly evolving world. It aims to redefine education in a manner that not only imparts knowledge but also empow- ers students to think critically, communicate effectively, and navigate the digital landscape with confidence. The future of education hinges on the development of these skills, and our perspective represents a stride toward that very future, one that readies students to excel in the ever-evolving world they are poised to inherit.