Final answer:
The discussion highlights the gaps in skills taught versus skills sought in education. It emphasizes the divide caused by access to technology and the importance of e-readiness. The quality of American education is also discussed, focusing on the development of reading, math, and critical thinking skills. Prominent scholars are working to address these challenges and bridge the gap between academic knowledge and employability.
Step-by-step explanation:
Education and Technological Divide
The discussion focuses on a major gap in skills taught versus skills sought. Specifically, there is an ongoing gap in information and access to technology. Well-funded schools provide more exposure to technology, leading to greater proficiency and marketability in the technology-based job market. This creates a divide in our society between those with technological knowledge and those without. Additionally, there is a gap in e-readiness, which refers to the ability to sort through, interpret, and process knowledge.
The Quality of American Education
American education faces challenges, with less developed reading, math, and critical thinking skills compared to students in other industrialized nations. In the global economy, nations with a higher number of knowledge workers, such as engineers, scientists, and computer programmers, hold dominance. Emphasizing and improving these skills is crucial for American students to remain competitive in the future job market.
Addressing Education Challenges
Several prominent scholars have been working to address education challenges, particularly those related to employability and practical skills. However, the results of these efforts have not been as widely influential as desired. There is a need to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and seamless employability to ensure students are equipped with relevant skills for the workforce.