Volume 1 Issue 26
by Michael Wagner
Knowledge Pilot, Launch Global Education
In reviewing this week’s selection of articles, something really jumped out at me—the importance of young adults developing critical thinking skills. More and more these skills are highlighted as necessary and desirable in the workplace. We expand on that thought below.
We also
take a closer look at the liberal arts, share more information about the growth
of international education enrollment, and feature an article looking at
post-pandemic support of students.
Enjoy!
Discoveries
The power of journaling
As a college counselor, one of the pieces of advice I repeat over and over is for students to develop the habit of journaling. I encourage them to begin as early as possible, but no later than the summer before ninth grade, as it is important for students to journal their experiences during high school for use during the college application process. KQED reporter Nimah Gobir reports on other benefits of journaling in his coverage of the New York Times Learning Center’s writing contest.
'Keep those diaries': Strategies for centering student voices and improving reflection habits
Put your thinking caps on
Several weeks ago, I shared in Issue #20 a story about the importance of critical thinking and the habit building that leads to success. The topic was once again brought forward during the International Association of Universities (IAU) General Conference in Dublin, Ireland. Nic Mitchell of University World News reports on why it is important for universities to develop students who will possess solid critical thinking skills instead of solely concentrating on getting good grades.
Critical thinking: More important than grades – IAU told
International student enrollment is on the rise
We have been following the post-pandemic rise of international student enrollment. Reported this week by the NL Times (Netherland Times) international admissions has increased at Dutch universities, which has in turn caused a housing crisis.
Over 7% more international students at Dutch universities; Increase slowing down
Liberal arts colleges still hold value
Since embracing ourselves as a technology-led society there has been a transition away from students acquiring liberal arts degrees. The emphasis has instead been placed on being career focused after graduating from high school, having a major and life path already decided. Marc Vogl of KQED shares a brief personal essay about his belief in the value of a Liberal Arts degree.
Marc Vogl: The value of a liberal arts degree
Students need support now more than ever
Though the world has quickly returned to normal, we must remember that many students were plunged into an abyss that they never thought would happen to them during their college years. Though back on campus, we must remember that students will continue to need additional support. Marvin Krissupportlov, President of Pace University contributes to Forbes regarding the topic.
The pandemic impacted a generation of students. We need to give the support they need to succeedTip of the Week
It is all about critical thinking
Over the past few weeks there have been several articles regarding the role higher education should play in helping young adults develop critical thinking skills. When you begin to see several sources covering the same topic, these data point to a trend line.
However, if we are going to place an emphasis on college students utilizing critical thinking skills, we need high schools to begin planting the seed. It is not just the role of colleges but also high schools to engage students in analyzing, synthesizing, and reflecting on the information they encounter to better understand the complexities of the world around them. We must encourage students to question assumptions, and to consider alternate viewpoints, implications, and consequences to better reach reason-based conclusions. This academic rigor will help young adults form the skills necessary to be ready for college and successful in life.
Before you go...
This time of year is one of my favorites. There are plenty of sporting events—American college football, professional football, the end of the baseball season with the World Series—and Thanksgiving; my favorite holiday of all. What is not to like? Great food and football come together on the same day. Also, the seasons shift from fall to winter. CBS Sunday Morning videographer Scot Miller captures this spectacular change near Ouachita National Forest in Arkansas.
Last week we reached a milestone at Launch Global Education, producing our silver edition newsletter. Now, it feels like we have followed up with another milestone moving forward with issue number 26. It is hard to believe that 26 weeks have passed since we started publishing the Odyssey newsletter. I remember authoring the first issue in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. I sat selecting what I thought would be articles of interest for our readers focused on higher education. And now here we are a half a year later. Dr. Ann and I hope you continue enjoy the topics we cover and the stories we highlight featuring great information on higher education and college readiness.
On to our second half a year!
Mike
Michael Wagner, MAED is a founder and the Knowledge Pilot for Launch Education. Mr. Mike has assisted hundreds of students around the world on their college pathways.