ERIC Number: ED672685
Record Type: Non-Journal
Publication Date: 2025
Pages: 21
Abstractor: ERIC
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
Available Date: 0000-00-00
Durable Skills: Enhance Career and Technical Education in the Age of Artificial Intelligence
Center for Public Education, National School Boards Association
Job opportunities in the United States are growing, but there are not enough interested or qualified workers to fill them. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is also transforming the future of work, bringing both innovation and uncertainty and emphasizing the growing need to equip students with adaptable, future-ready skills. This report advocates for strengthening career and technical education (CTE) by preparing students with those durable skills for an AI-driven economy. An overview of how AI is rapidly transforming the job market is detailed, followed by an exploration of the current state of CTE in K-12 education. Strategies for CTE practitioners and programs to tackle AI-driven challenges and improve student outcomes are provided in four key areas: (1) Integration of AI Skills--AI is becoming essential across all sectors and job functions, making AI literacy a crucial component of CTE programs; (2) Personalized Learning--Tailoring education to students' career interests ensures they develop the skills most relevant to their future goals; (3) Emphasis on Transferable (Durable) Skills--AI cannot easily replicate problem-solving, communication, critical thinking, and other essential skills, which remain in high demand in the AI age; and (4) Data-Driven Decision-Making--Equipping educators and students with reliable data and insights helps them make informed choices about skill development and program selection. One method to assess students' durable skills for curriculum development and improvement is highlighted--a digital tool called The Tracker. To maximize CTE's impact, increased investment and policy support from both government and industry will also be essential.
Descriptors: Artificial Intelligence, Career and Technical Education, Labor Force Development, Job Skills, Elementary Secondary Education, Technological Literacy, Individualized Instruction, Vocational Interests, Transfer of Training, Curriculum Development, Manufacturing, Robotics, Retailing, Health Services, Postsecondary Education
Center for Public Education, National School Boards Association. 1680 Duke Street 2nd Floor, Alexandria, VA 22314. Tel: 703-838-6722; Fax: 703-683-7590; e-mail: info@nsba.org; Web site: https://www.nsba.org/Services/Center-for-Public-Education
Publication Type: Reports - Evaluative
Education Level: Elementary Secondary Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: Policymakers; Administrators
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: National School Boards Association (NSBA), Center for Public Education (CPE)
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: N/A