21ST CENTURY SKILLS

Acquiring a broad set of skills during senior schooling is critical to students’ success in further education and life. Skills identified as 21st century skills are those needed to succeed in a complex, competitive, knowledge-based, information-age, technologically driven economy and society. This course is designed to explore the essential elements needed for the acquisition of knowledge and competencies to cope with the demands of the 21st century. This course prepares university students by engaging them in a thoughtful dialogue and activities.

By the end of the semester, students should be able to: - Enable students to analyze information, evaluate evidence, and make informed judgments, fostering their ability to think critically and solve complex problems. - Empower students to tap into their creative potential, think innovatively, and generate original ideas, thereby enhancing their ability to approach challenges with fresh perspectives. - Enhance communication proficiency to adapt their communication style to diverse cultural contexts, and express ideas with clarity and precision. - Equip students with strategies for self-organization, time management, and the cultivation of a growth mindset, promoting holistic personal and professional growth. - Develop students’ awareness and understanding of cultural contexts, enabling them to adapt their communication and behavior accordingly, fostering cultural sensitivity, and promoting effective interactions in diverse environments. - Nurture collaborative skills and cultivate students’ ability to work effectively in teams. - Provide students with opportunities to apply critical thinking skills, creativity, and effective communication to solve real-world problems and approach challenges with innovative solutions.

- Smartphones should be used solely for academic purposes, such as referencing dictionaries or engaging in classroom activities. Personal use for calls, messaging, or gaming is strongly and highly discouraged. - Leaving the class without the professor's permission is permitted only in cases of emergency or f sudden illness arises. - Punctuality is important. Being late to class will result in being marked as such. Three instances of lateness will be considered as one unexcused absence. - Any form of cheating is strictly discouraged and will not be tolerated. - Enjoy and actively participate in the class!

Prerequisites for enrollment in this class include a fundamental level of English communication skills and proficiency in digital literacy. Given the student-centered nature of the course, active participation in class activities and discussions is strongly encouraged.

This course provides the opportunity to develop strong problem-solving abilities by honing critical thinking skills to effectively analyze and solve complex issues. Students can become creative, enabling them to approach challenges with fresh perspectives and generate innovative solutions. In addition, they will learn how to adapt their communication style to diverse cultural contexts, express themselves effectively, and collaborate with individuals from different backgrounds. Lastly, students will acquire strategies for self-organization and personal growth, empowering them to manage their time effectively, nurture a growth mindset, and continually develop both personally and professionally.