Why non formal ed is important

The Importance of Non-Formal Education and Family Involvement

In today's rapidly changing world, non-formal education is a crucial complement to traditional formal education. This type of education includes various structured learning experiences outside the formal school system, such as sports, music lessons, community service, cultural programs, and particularly STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) initiatives. Non-formal education significantly contributes to personal and social development, offering benefits that go beyond academic achievements.

STEAM activities have gained prominence due to their relevance in the modern job market. They foster critical thinking, creativity, and technical skills essential for future careers. For example, coding clubs and robotics workshops help students develop problem-solving skills and technical knowledge, sparking interest in fields like software development, engineering, and scientific research. A notable example is Thomas Suarez, who developed iPhone apps and founded his company, CarrotCorp, at 12, after participating in coding camps and tech education programs.

Organizing non-formal education activities can be rewarding and straightforward. Schools play a pivotal role by integrating these activities into their extracurricular offerings. Teachers can lead after-school clubs, mentor students, and collaborate with community organizations for guest speakers and specialized instructors. Schools might partner with local tech companies for coding bootcamps or universities for science workshops. Leveraging technology can also expand access through online courses, virtual workshops, and interactive learning platforms.

Family involvement is essential to maximizing the benefits of non-formal education. Parents and guardians play a crucial role in encouraging and supporting their children's participation. When families are engaged, children are more likely to attend regularly and fully benefit from the programs. Parents can help by recognizing their child's interests and talents and finding suitable activities. This involvement strengthens the parent-child bond through shared experiences and models a lifelong learning mindset, showing that education and personal growth continue beyond school walls.

Non-formal education offers a more flexible and often faster route to acquiring job-ready skills than traditional degree programs. For example, data science bootcamps provide intensive training in programming, machine learning, and data visualization, equipping students with practical skills for quick workforce entry. Companies like Google, IBM, and EY have adopted hiring practices that prioritize practical skills and relevant experience over formal degrees. This shift is driven by the recognition that competency in specific job-related skills can be more indicative of success than a traditional college degree. As a result, many tech companies now hire individuals who have completed coding bootcamps or possess certifications in relevant technologies.

According to the World Economic Forum, the future of work is increasingly focused on skills rather than degrees. Over the next decade, technology is expected to transform nearly one-third of all jobs worldwide, creating high demand for roles in fields like AI, cloud computing, and data analysis. These roles often require specific technical skills that can be acquired through non-formal education pathways. Additionally, a study by the Information Technology & Innovation Foundation found that tech workers without degrees earn significantly higher salaries than their counterparts in other sectors. This is partly because the tech industry values demonstrated skills and practical experience gained through non-formal education options like bootcamps and certifications.

In conclusion, non-formal education is a vital component of a well-rounded upbringing, enriching lives and broadening horizons. By embracing and supporting these opportunities, parents and communities can help young people develop into confident, capable, and compassionate individuals. The partnership between non-formal education providers and families is key to unlocking the full potential of every child, paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future. Engaging in non-formal STEAM activities prepares young people for the complexities of the modern world, equipping them with the necessary skills for future success and career opportunities.

(source: Computer Science https://www.computerscience.org/resources/companies-that-dont-require-a-college-degree/ )

(source: Computer Science https://www.computerscience.org/resources/companies-that-dont-require-a-college-degree/ )