Basic Skills for Today's Workforce

ERIC Clearinghouse for Community Colleges
EdInfo Number 98-07

New technologies and information based products and services have redefined basic skill requirements for today's workplace. Preparing students who are not baccalaureate bound for work in this new, expanding environment poses special challenges to both educators and employers. As part of a reevaluation of its employment preparation curricula, Prince George's Community College in Maryland conducted a review of recent research focusing on workforce needs. The college found that the following qualities were desirable in workers at all levels of employment:

Ability to be a perpetual learner in a rapidly changing work environment
Competence in reading, writing, and use of a personal computer
Proficiency in both listening and oral communication
Adaptability and possession of creative problem solving skills
Strong self esteem and motivation for sustained career development
Well developed interpersonal skills and the sensitivity to function well s part of a team
Potential to be an effective leader

This information was reported in JC 980 001, "Workforce Skills Needed by Today's Employers." A full-text copy of this document may be obtained from the ERIC Document Reproduction Services, 7420 Fullerton Road, Suite 110, Springfield, VA 22153; or call (800) 443-ERIC.

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