While the dates reflect that I have not posted anything in 2013 the truth is that entries were made on WordPress! Seems like the various consolidations that have taken place in the world of online media caught up with yours truly as well. An attempt will be made to transfer that content to this platform.
Technology seems to be a two-sided sword. Plenty of accolades to go around for the amount of information that can be accessed and delivered. On the flip side the question remains what is appropriate, how much of it and is it really accessible by all students? Then there is the issue of platforms: the battle grounds have long been drawn between Microsoft and Apple to capture the education market. Apple took the lead with Apps and Android seems to be leading the tablet war. No winner is yet declared but it does create headaches for decision-makers. Not unlike the Betamax / VHS tug of war from years yonder.
My country of birth is South Africa. Current statistics show that the official unemployment number is 24.9% - a 0.1% drop from the previous year. Young people leaving school has a tough time getting some corporate experience under their belt. A global research program by PepsiCo USA confirms that graduates with even one year of experience are far more likely to get a job than those without any experience. Many graduates refuse an entry-level job at say a fast food outlet because real world reality and their dreams are in direct conflict. The perception is that they would not work for minimum wage and rather hold out for something better.
It seems to be the same in my new country, the USA. After 20 years in a new culture it is easy to draw parallels from the old. Kids are kids, dreams are dreams and I suspect the same applies on all continents.
Which leads to the question of career paths. I am not referring to the small minority choosing specialist courses such as engineering, IT or the healthcare industry. This is about the majority who acquired a general matriculation or liberal arts degree. What hope do they have? The next posting will explore this a bit more.
Michael Cordier
