Ken Kay just sent me a blurb from a Partnership for 21st Century Skills news release, describing a recent poll of U.S. Voters. Here’s part of what he sent!
WASHINGTON, DC – Oct. 10, 2007 – A new, nationwide poll of registered voters reveals that Americans are deeply concerned that the United States is not preparing young people with the skills they need to compete in the global economy.
An overwhelming 80 percent of voters say that the kind of skills students need to learn to be prepared for the jobs of the 21st century is different from what they needed 20 years ago. Yet a majority of Americans say that schools need to do a better job of keeping up with changing educational needs.
The national poll was conducted by Public Opinion Strategies and Peter D. Hart Research Associates on behalf of the Partnership for 21st Century Skills.
Among the other key findings:
- Eighty-eight percent of voters say they believe that schools can and should incorporate 21st century skills such as critical thinking and problem-solving skills, computer and technology skills, and communication and self-direction skills into the curriculum.
- Sixty-six percent of voters say they believe that students need more than just the basics of reading, writing and math; schools also need to incorporate a broader range of skills.
- Fifty-three percent say they believe schools should place an equal emphasis on 21st century skills and basic skills.
You can read the entire press release at the Partnership’s web site. They appear to be the only source for the survey findings at this time.
