The Importance of Continuing Education in a Post Pandemic World
Continuing education generally refers to any post-secondary skills boosting or learning programs that adults pursue after their formal university education. Its delivery varies from workshops, to certifications, diplomas, and micro-programs. It has served as an excellent stepping stone between higher education and the workforce - preparing its students with applicable, and in-demand skills that can enhance or even redirect their formal education into a fulfilling career.
It also serves as an excellent service for employee enhancement, team building, and reskilling. All of which are becoming more and more prominent within the workforce that has to keep up with today’s fast-paced world. Investing in employees doesn’t only boost skills, it also boosts morale - which leads to not only better work, but a better work environment.
Happiness and inspiration are often contagious, and it’s easy to spot a workplace that has it. It goes beyond the on-site gym or relaxation room that no one actually uses during business hours without feeling ostracized. It’s an adaptable, human-centric energy that breeds authenticity and creativity; which drives innovation, and ultimately success.
As universities like Concordia stand strong at the forefront of next-gen institutions, we are seeing a merger of mentorships, formal education, and continuing education. We are calling this the umbrella of lifelong learning, but the concept itself is not new - and should continue to excel far beyond any classroom or office. Lifelong learners are privy to the importance of well-being both mentally and physically, work/life balance, and the need to continuously adapt and improve our points of view. They believe in surrounding themselves with people of diverse backgrounds and viewpoints, as well as with those who can offer mentorship in forms of support and advice. Change is necessary and on-going in just about every aspect of life, and we should both embrace and prepare for it as best we can.
Even before the pandemic sped up some of the much needed and necessary changes within both the work and education systems, the internet and digital access had already begun shaping it. In it’s May 14th issue, Ann Kirschner for Forbes Magazine, makes the case that the road to recovery after the pandemic lies through an institution's ability to change and adapt through innovation.
Thus, continuous learning is essential, and although it can be fostered by continuing education and lifelong learning systems - it is intrinsically your self-motivated persistence in acquiring competencies and knowledge to expand your skill set and develop future opportunities. If you aren’t actively or continuously learning, both your professional and personal life become at risk of stagnation.
Stay tuned for upcoming articles on the future of work and education - as we continue to investigate the elements and essentials to your ongoing success.