According to LinkedIn research, skills-based hiring is on the rise in the United States. LinkedIn found that out of people who are hiring, 77% are investing more toward hiring based on a candidate’s skills or competencies. This increased focus on hiring candidates with the right skill set has led to the emerging trend of skills-based learning.
So, we’re here to tell you all about the emerging trend of skills-based learning and how it can benefit you. Keep reading to learn all about it!
What Is Skills-Based Learning?
Skills-based learning enables students to acquire knowledge, learn new concepts in the classroom, and then apply these skills through practical application. This includes an increased focus on hands-on training that teaches students real skills in their careers. Some options for skills-based learning include interactive labs, hands-on practice, and an externship experience.
Why All the Focus on Skills?
There are many reasons for the emerging trend of skills-based learning. First, employers want job candidates who already possess the skills required for their specific job.
It takes time and resources to train employees, so hiring candidates who are ready to perform their specialized skills from the first day on the job, helps employers save on their valuable resources.
Second, an increased focus on skills helps you stay up to date with the latest best practices, trends, and technology for your chosen career field. For example, a nurse must have the most up-to-date training available to care for patients in a healthcare setting effectively.
Third, learning and practicing skills while in school allows you to stay ahead of frequently changing job markets, which helps bridge the gap between what employers need and the skills that people currently have.
What Are the Benefits of This?
For students who choose a college degree that focuses on skills-based learning, there are many benefits you will receive. One of the main benefits is that you only take the classes you need for your new career instead of taking years of general education classes. This allows you to finish college faster because you don’t have to spend four to six years in school.
Another great benefit is that you will learn skills that employers actually need. For example, at East Ohio, we designed our college degree programs to meet the needs of local employers. Students in our career-focused programs prepare for professional, skills-based certifications specific to their chosen career field. Additionally, students complete an externship experience as part of their program that allows them to apply their skills in the real world. Gaining valuable experience and preparing for professional certifications helps you stand out in the job market when starting your new career.
Many people learn better by doing rather than just by listening to a lecture. Because of this, when people get the opportunity to learn in a hands-on environment, they pick up the skills faster and get better at them. This type of hands-on training also gives you the chance to enhance your critical thinking and problem-solving skills, as you must make decisions in the moment while practicing your skills.
How Do You Choose the Right Program?
With so many different college and training options available, how can you choose the right program that offers this type of skills-based learning? The first thing you need to do is look for a program that teaches the exact skills you need for the career you want to pursue. For example, if you are interested in becoming a medical assistant, you will need a program that trains you on the valuable skills medical assistants use every day, such as taking vital signs, performing lab tests, and drawing blood.
You will also want to choose a program that includes practical ways to practice your skills and gain experience, such as the hands-on training, interactive labs, externship experience, and certification preparation included in our degree programs here at East Ohio College.
If you’re ready to enroll in a career-focused college degree program that gives you the skills-based learning and hands-on experience you need to succeed in today’s job market, we are here to help!
Discover our fast-track programs in Nursing, LPN to RN Bridge, Medical Assisting, Dental Assisting, Medical Billing and Coding, and Business Administration. Contact us today to get started on your path to an exciting new career!