The “general skills” are becoming more and more important, just as vital as the technical skills by reducing recruiters, because AI and robotics take care of routine tasks.
On the changing labor market today and the evolution of learning methods, there is growing attention on something that does not always have enough space in online courses: general skills. Although the large part of our resources consists in strengthening technical control via skills such as coding or analysis, market trends suggest that being technically strong alone is not enough for sustained professional success.
As a person working in the Edtech space, I saw how learners with solid academic history thrives in their respective roles. But I also saw how important it is for them to be able to collaborate well, to manage and to communicate clearly. Although these general skills are intrinsically difficult to teach online, they are absolutely essential in the workplace.
Fill the gap between online learning and work realities
The transition from online learning spaces to the world of work is not as simple as possible. Our learners manage to master the content of the course. But when they enter into real world environments to work in the teams, manage comments or present ideas convincingly, the translation of skills can be difficult.
A great reason behind this is the limited face to face interaction. Group discussions, social clues and collective problem resolution do not naturally occur in online courses at your own pace. And yet, these are exactly the scenarios that graduates face when they enter the workplace. The resolution of this requires a redesign of courses through the objective of preparation for behavior, not only academic rigor.
Why general skills count more than ever
There is a notable change in today's work environment: “general skills” are becoming more and more important as AI and robotics take care of routine tasks. Almost all hiring organizations now consider general skills as vital as technical skills, if not more. In fact, 92% of job professionals questioned by LinkedIn believe that general skills are equal or even more precious than difficult skills.
This trend is aligned with the “future report of jobs” of the 2025 World Forum, which provides for high demand in the years to come for skills such as critical thinking, creativity, self -awareness, resilience and active listening. The report also highlights a change in business priorities, emphasizing improved social and emotional adaptability.
Thus, although online learning has facilitated that never access to the knowledge of anywhere, it also presents a unique challenge: how to create general skills in a digital framework?
Integration of general skills development in the online study program
Although general skills are less quantifiable than technical, they can be taught through well -designed online experiences.
Group tasks and collaboration: When online courses include team assignments or peer learning, learners can practice communication, negotiation and time management in a way that reflects the realities of the workplace.
Script -based learning: Immersive activities such as simulations, role playing or virtual presentations allow learners to respond to realistic professional challenges such as conflict resolution.
Self-reflection and feedback: Encourage learners to introspect their learning styles, their work habits and their behavioral tendencies can promote emotional intelligence and a state of mind focused on growth.
Culturally aware learning environments: General skills are not universal. What works in one culture may not translate directly into another. This is why the integration of global perspectives into the content of the course becomes essential.
Even empirical evidence supports these practices. Research shows that well -collaborating teams are 20% more productive. And the learners who accumulate these skills are often more confident, more committed and better prepared to thrive in modern workplaces.
Final reflections
As work becomes more automated and digital, what distinguishes professionals is their ability to connect, communicate and collaborate effectively. Online learning platforms have a double role to play here. First, they must equip learners with an expertise focused on the domain thanks to accessible and high quality content. Second, they should focus on learners to become well -balanced professionals who have a deep understanding of human dynamics.
General skills do not need to be a reflection afterwards. With the right design, they can be integrated into the heart of online education while enjoying learners, employers and broader labor.
—Firoz Thairinil is founder and chief executive officer of Uninthena
