Empowering Curriculum

[FagaLusie]

The Characteristics of youths in Fiji can vary widely based on cultural, societal, and individual factors. Here’s a list.

1. Educational Needs.
   -Access to quality education

• Vocational training and skill development

2. Employment & career Needs
   -Access to diverse job opportunities.

• Career counseling and guidance.

3. Social and Emotional Needs.

• positive peer relationships
• supportive family environment
• opportunities for social engagement and community involvement.

4. Financial Literacy
   -Financial education and budgeting skills
   -Entrepreneurship and business skills.

[s_weta23]

1. Think of the youths in your context and list their characteristics in terms of their life needs. List these needs on paper and discuss with your colleague who is also a teacher, or someone working in education. You can also consult employment survey reports from the relevant government ministry in your country, like the Ministry of Labour, to understand skills gaps in the economy.
2. Draw up a list of suggested offerings for open schooling in your country based on the identified needs of youth and on skills gaps identified.
3. Share your list in the chat forum, and read the lists of other students. Are there needs that you want to add to your list?

Disasters, whether natural or human-made, can have significant impacts on the learning process. Physical damage to educational facilities, such as schools and universities, can render them temporarily unusable, forcing students and educators to relocate or suspend classes. Displacement of students and educators due to evacuations and temporary sheltering disrupts regular school attendance and engagement in studies. The loss of instructional time due to school closures can create gaps in the curriculum and disrupt the continuity of learning.

Psychological trauma resulting from disasters can affect concentration, memory, and overall mental well-being, making it challenging for students and educators to focus on learning. Disasters can also damage or destroy educational materials, textbooks, teaching aids, and technological resources, hindering the learning process. Power outages and disrupted internet connectivity during disasters can prevent students from accessing online educational resources and engaging in virtual learning.

The loss of educational records makes it difficult to track and evaluate student progress. Financial strain on educational institutions, students, and their families can lead to cutbacks in programs, staff layoffs, and reduced access to resources. Disasters can also disrupt standardized testing schedules, affecting student evaluations and the assessment of educational outcomes.

Vulnerable populations may face greater challenges in resuming their education, exacerbating existing educational inequities. Educators and school staff members may also be personally affected by disasters, impacting their ability to provide instruction and support to students.

Addressing these disruptions requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves ensuring the safety and well-being of students and educators, providing temporary learning spaces, restoring educational facilities, and offering psychological support. Efforts should be made to replace damaged educational materials and resources, restore internet connectivity, and recover educational records. Financial support and resources should be allocated to mitigate the impact of disasters on educational institutions and students. Additionally, targeted interventions should be implemented to address the specific needs of vulnerable populations and support educators in their recovery.

By recognizing and addressing the various ways in which disasters can disrupt learning, educational systems can better prepare for and respond to these challenges, ensuring that students can continue their education and recover from the impacts of disasters.

[mariana]

Health Education: Access to health education is vital to promote a healthy lifestyle and prevent health issues.
Cultural Awareness: Fiji’s multicultural society requires a strong understanding of diverse cultures and traditions. Environmental Awareness: Fijian youths need to be educated on environmental issues due to the vulnerability of the country to climate change.
Mental Health Support: With the increasing stressors

[TeePree]

The youth in Swaziland faces challenges of unemployment. Most graduates are jobless.
There is inadequate lifeskills among high school graduates
Inadequate access to tertiary education due to insufficient government funding even for qualifying students.

Online skill learning can try to mitigate challenges faced by youth of access to skill education.
By virtue of it being online, it is definitely cost effective compared to conventional classrooms.
I think the country needs to up its game by decentralizing online learning so that even the most abandoned areas atleast receive access to the internet at cost effective rates

[2023]

The life need of youths in Solomon islands is as follows:
A. Access to quality education (formal and informal). This is to improve their prior knowledge and skill learned from parents and abroad for a better living.
B. Access to employment opportunities.
This is where they make use of the skills and knowledge gained through learning in the playing field.
C. Awareness and training.
There is a need for awareness and training to the rural based youth. This is to equip them with the new knowledge and skills about this world of new things /technology.
C. Engaged to community work.
Youths need to be involved to community work initiated by Elders. This can lead them to become good future leaders.
D. Uphold culture and traditional values.
Youths need to be associated with old people who know more about there culture and identity.
E. Accessible to the new knowledge of technology, internet training and learning through communication.

2. Open school in the country offers the following:
   A. Vocational and real life training,this is to bring reality to the youths learning.
   B. A variety of skillful activity targeting the jobs demanding to one’s country.
   C. Offering awareness and training to youths regarding the social influence and technology for a sustainable living.
   D. Recognise the diverse culture and setting within the country. Some sessions should be conducted on culture so that the youth may know more about themselves and others than the western culture.
   E. Basic Internet training and learning through this modern technology. Most learner wants to be participating in this such learning but lacks the knowledge of networking.

[mozzmt]

List of suggested offerings for open schooling in Fiji

1. Basic Education:

• High school equivalency programs
• Literacy and numeracy classes for adults and out-of-school youth
• Remedial courses in subjects like math, science, and language arts

2. Vocational and Technical Training:

• Vocational courses in fields like automotive repair, plumbing, electrician, and more
• Information technology and computer programming training
• Construction and building trades programs
• Healthcare assistant and nursing programs
• Graphic design and multimedia production
• Land use management e.g innovative farming skills for rural youth

3. Soft Skills Development:

• Communication and interpersonal skills training
• Time management and organizational skills
• Critical thinking and problem-solving workshops
• Resume writing and interview preparation
• Financial literacy and entrepreneurship training

4. Digital Literacy:

• Basic computer skills training
• Internet safety and cybersecurity education
• Coding and programming courses
• Introduction to software applications (e.g., Microsoft Office)
• Social media and digital marketing skills

5. Health and Well-being:

• Physical fitness and wellness programs
• Mental health and emotional well-being support
• Nutrition and healthy cooking classes
• Substance abuse prevention and counselling
• Sexual education and reproductive health information

6. Financial Literacy and Entrepreneurship:

• Personal finance and budgeting workshops
• Introduction to investing and savings strategies
• Small business and entrepreneurship training
• Business plan development and mentorship programs

7. Environmental and Sustainability Education:

• Environmental awareness and conservation programs
• Sustainability practices and eco-friendly living
• Renewable energy and green technology training
• Recycling and waste management initiatives

8. Art and Culture:

• Visual arts, music, and performing arts classes
• Cultural heritage preservation and promotion
• Creative writing and literature appreciation

9. Language and Communication Skills:

• Public speaking and debate workshops
• Writing and journalism classes
• Debate and critical thinking courses

10. Community Engagement and Civic Education:

• Community service and volunteer opportunities
• Civic education and active citizenship programs
• Leadership and community organizing training
• Human rights and social justice education

[malachi2016]

In Samoa these are some of the youths characteristics in terms of their life needs

1. Access to quality education and vocational training.

• TVET is one of the need here whereas students are empowered through these areas of learning as Samoa is one of the Pacific Islands who have high hopes in the development of tourism. Through getting enough trainings and more online programs students will get more understanding and give them more opportunities to learn more about this field of learning…

2. Support for cultural perservations and identity.

• Opening schooling can enhance students to value and love their culture and their inheritance…

3. Access to technology and internet for learning and communication.

• Open Schooling can open doors to students to learn about technology and internet. Not only they will gain more knowledge about online studies but it will enlarge their skills and knowledge about technology.

[riteshninarayan]

1. Characteristics of youths in terms of their life needs:

• Innovative
• Creative
• Patient
• Team players
• collaborative
• Engaging and exciting
• Good communication skills
• Good time management and organizational skills
• Energetic
• Dedicated
• Decision making
• Passionate
• Empathetic
• Appreciative

Skills gap

• Collaboration, teamwork and interpersonal skills
• Initiative
• Respect and communication
• Decision making or problem-solving skills
• Time management and organisation
• ICT skills
• Accuracy
• Multitasking

2. Suggested offerings for open schooling in Fiji

• Collaborative activities
• ICT skills
• Channel of communication
• Hands on skills practice
• Real life activities
• Life-long skills
• Project management
• Patriotism and loyalty at workplace
• efficiency
• multitasking
• moral values and charity
• stress management in home and work life
• Traditional processes for future sustainability

3. Youth skills needs added to the list from Chat forum:

• Belongingness to the community
• Engagement in community service, social work
• Civic education
• Health care
• Career awareness
• Cultural preservation and identity
• Environment sustainability

[Lennah]

1. Some of the many life needs for youths in Fiji I was able to gather are as follows;

• access to quality education
• employment education opportunities abroad
• financial and business management literacy
• communication development skills
• traditional and cultural practices (preservation and identity)
• health and well-being (physically and mentally)
• access to IT and ICT
• teaching English as a second language
• environmental awareness and sustainability

2. List of suggested offerings for open schooling;
   a. Environmental Training and Education

• educate awareness on the climate change issues faced in the Pacific
• studies on how to be more environmental friendly
• practices on the solutions or prevention on some climate change issues

b. Vocational Training Programs

• developing various skills according to the trade specialty
• house keeping and hotel management

c. IT, ICT and Digital Literacy

• expand youths horizon in this digital world era

d. Language and Culture Courses

• teaching English as a second language
• preservation of the different language and culture

e. Health and Wellness

• identifying mental health issues
• health risk awareness
• healthy living sustainability

f. Agriculture Practices

• life skills in farming
  -business management skills
  -livestock and crop sustainability

3. Added list from my readings;

• family support system
• numeracy and literacy skills
• basic life skills
• engagement in community and civic activities
• opportunities for internships, apprenticeships and job placement

[poojapillay]

Characteristics of Youths in terms of their life needs and suggested offerings for open schooling in Fiji;

1. Quality Education

• Open school provides easy and diverse range of learning opportunities, ensuring students and teachers are fully engaged.

2. Accessibility to resources

• Open schooling provides relevant curriculum and caters for all types of learners.

3. Engagement with other peers

• Open schooling makes communicating and collaborating with others at different location easier.

[teedo86]

1. a) Access to higher education to broaden their knowledge.
   b) Access to technology to interact and be informed on what is happening around them.
   c) Have a voice and be able to contribute to nation’s policy and decision making.
   d) Access to open courses to allow low academic achievers to acquire skills for employment/self-employment.

2. a) Vocational studies and schools to be set up for the youths.
   b) short courses offered by Tertiary institutions in Fiji.
   c) Workshop conducted by the Ministry of Youth to empower youths in the community

[praviserkchand]

The characteristics and life needs of youths can vary widely based on their individual circumstances, but there are some common themes that can be identified.
(i) Quality education and better standard of living
(ii) Social connections and relationships
(iii) Employment and financial stability
(iv) Physical and mental support

[Krishnil]

Q1. The general list of characteristics and life needs of youths in Fiji are:

Characteristics:

1. Technologically savvy
2. Socially connected
3. Creative and innovative
4. Ambitious and driven
5. Open-minded and accepting of diversity
6. Seeking independence and autonomy
7. Concerned about the environment and sustainability
8. Health-conscious and active

Life needs:

1. Access to quality education and training
2. Opportunities for skills development and career advancement
3. Affordable and safe housing
4. Access to healthcare and wellness programs
5. Financial stability and security
6. Inclusion and acceptance in society
7. Meaningful social connections and relationships
8. Opportunities for civic engagement and community involvement

It’s important to understand the specific needs and challenges of youths in your context and work towards addressing them through education and employment initiatives. Collaboration with government ministries, employers, and community organizations can help bridge the skills gap and create opportunities for youth success.

[ashiyanabegum]

Characteristics of youth in my context:

1. Desire for independence and autonomy
2. Need for practical life skills
3. Interest in technology and digital literacy
4. Concerns about mental health and well-being
5. Desire for career guidance and mentorship
6. Need for financial literacy and entrepreneurship skills
7. Interest in environmental sustainability and climate change
8. Concerns about social justice and equality

Suggested offerings for open schooling in my country:

1. Life skills workshops covering topics such as budgeting, cooking, and home maintenance
2. Technology and coding courses
3. Mental health and well-being support groups and resources
4. Career counseling and networking opportunities
5. Financial literacy and entrepreneurship training
6. Environmental sustainability and climate change education
7. Social justice and equality workshops and discussions

I would like to add:
8. Health and nutrition education
9. Civic engagement and community involvement opportunities.

[R.k]

Characteristics of youths in terms of their life needs in Vanuatu
1.Access to quality education
2.Access to technology and internet for learning especially during disasters.
3.Awareness and training about climate change and its impact on environment .
4.Mental health well being and support.
5.Proper Counselling.
6.Agricultural practices.

[ricyahuma]

A. Open school learners in Kenya, who are pursuing education through non-traditional means such as online platforms or distance learning, have been seen to have diverse needs that encompass various aspects of their lives. Here are some of their needs and characteristics related to those needs:

1. Flexible Schedule Needs:

• Characteristics: Many open-school learners have commitments like work or family, requiring flexible learning schedules.
• Life Needs: They require education that accommodates their varying daily routines and responsibilities.

2. Access to Resources:

• Characteristics: Limited access to physical learning materials and libraries may necessitate digital resources and online libraries.
• Life Needs: Learners seek access to a wide range of digital resources and materials to support their studies.

3. Tech Literacy and Support:

• Characteristics: Some learners may require additional support to navigate online platforms or technology.
• Life Needs: Access to technical assistance and resources becomes crucial for successful learning experiences.

4. Community and Networking:

• Characteristics: Despite distance, learners seek connections with peers, instructors, and mentors for collaboration and support.
• Life Needs: Opportunities for networking and social interactions help create a sense of community and support in their educational journey.

5. Personalized Learning:

• Characteristics: Varied learning paces and styles require customizable learning experiences.
• Life Needs: Tailored education helps accommodate diverse learning needs and preferences.

6. Self-Motivation and Discipline:

• Characteristics: Open school learners often need strong self-discipline and motivation to stay on track without the structure of traditional classrooms.
• Life Needs: Strategies and support systems are essential to maintain motivation and discipline in their learning process.

7. Recognition and Certification:

• Characteristics: The need for credentials and certifications to validate their learning.
• Life Needs: Opportunities for assessments, exams, and certification to ensure their education is recognized and valued in various contexts.

8. Affordability and Accessibility:

• Characteristics: Financial constraints might be a concern, necessitating affordable or free education options.
• Life Needs: Accessibility to quality education without significant financial burden is crucial for many open school learners.

9. Balancing Multiple Commitments:

• Characteristics: Juggling work, family, or other responsibilities alongside education requires a delicate balance.
• Life Needs: Supportive structures and understanding to manage multiple commitments effectively.

10. Continuous Support and Guidance:

• Characteristics: Continuous guidance and mentorship help in navigating challenges and staying motivated.
• Life Needs: Support systems that provide ongoing assistance and advice throughout their learning journey are vital.

Understanding these diverse needs and addressing them appropriately is essential in ensuring the success and satisfaction of open-school learners in their educational pursuits.

B. In a third-world country like Kenya, providing open schooling options can significantly enhance educational accessibility and quality. Here are some suggested offerings for open schooling in such a context:

1. Digital Learning Platforms:

• Online Courses: Offer a range of courses across subjects, accessible through computers or even mobile phones to accommodate various levels of tech access.
• Interactive Learning Modules: Engaging multimedia content such as videos, quizzes, and interactive lessons to cater to diverse learning styles.

2. Open Educational Resources (OER):

• Free Digital Libraries: Curate and provide access to a wide array of educational resources including textbooks, articles, and educational videos.
• Open Access Journals: Provide access to scholarly articles and research materials without subscription barriers.

3. Community Learning Centers:

• Local Hubs: Establish learning centers equipped with computers, internet access, and study materials for those without access at home.
• Tutoring and Support: Offer guidance and tutoring sessions in these centers, providing support for learners.

4. Mobile Learning Initiatives:

• SMS-Based Learning: Utilize text messages to deliver educational content, study tips, and notifications about available resources.
• Mobile Applications: Develop apps that enable learning offline and online, accommodating learners with smartphones.

5. Teacher Training Programs:

• Online Teacher Development: Provide training courses for teachers to enhance their skills in delivering online or distance education effectively.
• Pedagogical Support: Offer resources and guidance on adapting teaching methods to cater to open schooling requirements.

6. Recognition and Accreditation:

• Certification Programs: Design and offer certification exams and assessments that recognize competencies acquired through open schooling.
• Validation of Learning: Ensure that the certifications obtained are recognized by employers or higher education institutions.

7. Financial Support and Scholarships:

• Scholarship Programs: Offer financial aid and scholarships to economically disadvantaged students to access open schooling opportunities.
• Reduced Fee Structures: Implement subsidized fees or fee waivers to make education more affordable.

8. Local Language Support:

• Curriculum Localization: Develop learning materials in local languages to ensure inclusivity and accessibility for all learners.
• Translation Services: Provide translation services for existing educational resources to bridge language barriers.

9. Community Engagement and Outreach:

• Awareness Campaigns: Conduct outreach programs to raise awareness about the benefits and availability of open schooling options.
• Parental Involvement: Encourage parental participation and support in their children’s education through workshops and engagement programs.

10. Partnerships and Collaborations:

• Public-Private Partnerships: Collaborate with private entities, NGOs, and government agencies to strengthen resources and support for open schooling initiatives.
• International Cooperation: Seek partnerships with international organizations for knowledge exchange and resource-sharing.

These offerings, tailored to the context of a third-world country like Kenya, can help bridge educational gaps and provide equitable learning opportunities through open schooling.

[nia.iongi]

Characteristics of youths in Tongatapu in terms of their life needs.

1. Quality Education system

• Offering relevant courses in vocational and technical schools with best delivery of content knowledge with suitable resources to promotes quality and advanced learning various Topics.

2. Conduct skillful training

• Trained every individual student with life skills which they can be able to face the challenges of everyday living.
• Teach young student the economic and youth of nowadays and improved them for better life
• Trained every student to know their potential or skill in young age so that they delegate their life for better career

3. Engagement in community activities

• involved them in any event or awareness activity in the community to participate and feel responsible
• Teach they how the community and government working together

4. Proper counseling

• Provide counseling to every individual student on how they should live and what they should do to become good citizens of the country.

[AYOFEMIAP]

In Nigeria, the life needs of youths in relation to national skills gap include:
(i) Undersea Welding Skills Certifications;
(ii) Mobile Phones Repair Skills Certifications;
(iii) Computer Repair Welding Skills Certifications;
(iv) Solar Power Installation and Maintenance Skills Certifications;
(v) Plumbing Skills Certifications;
(vi) Tiles Making Skills Certifications;
(vii) Point of Sales Skills Certifications;
(ix) Mansonry Skills Certifications; and
(ix) Electrical and Electronics Maintenance Skills Certifications.

Yes, I would like to add other skills like:
(a) Cloud computing Skills Certifications; and
(b) Robotics Skills Certifications.