ÃÛÌÒapp

What do we mean by future skills?Ìý

The skills students will need in their future studies and careers are dramatically different from those required previously. Times are changing rapidly and educational institutions and teachers have a critical role to play in developing those skills in our young learners so that they are able to fulfill their potential and have bright futures ahead of them.Ìý

These skills are referred to as future skills. There is no common consensus on how to define these skills but, broadly speaking, they can be grouped into four categories:Ìý

1. Ways of thinking

Skills in this category include critical thinking, creativity, innovation, problem solving, metacognition and learning skills.

2. Ways of working

Here, we’re talking about the skills of communication and collaboration.

3. Tools for working

Information literacy is an important 21st-century skill, as well as ICT literacy and citizenship, both global and local.Ìý

4. Life skills

The final category covers life and career skills, and is all about personal and social responsibility.Ìý

One way you can encourage young learners to build these skills is through STEAM subjects (that’s science, technology, engineering, arts and math), which will equip them with functional skills such as organizing, planning, cognitive flexibility and self-regulation.Ìý

The four CsÌý

The four Cs refer to four important skills for young learners to master: communication, collaboration, critical thinking and creativity. These are essential, not just in an educational context, but in everyday life.Ìý

Falling into the first two categories of future skills (ways of thinking and ways of working), these can help children build confidence and self-esteem. They also encourage healthy emotional development.ÌýÌý

So let’s take a closer look at the theory behind them.

1. Communication

We usually think of communication as speaking and listening, but it’s actually much broader than that. Communication encapsulates telling stories, reading, sharing ideas and experiences, body language, facial expression, eye contact and tone. Children learn to decipher the world around them by learning and practicing these skills.

Strong communication skills, developed early, are directly related to their literacy success. These skills allow children to articulate their thoughts and ideas effectively, and listen to decode meaning. Students then begin to use communication for a range of purposes, and communicate effectively in diverse environments. Furthermore, developing strong patterns of verbal and non-verbal communication also fosters self-esteem and social skills.Ìý

2. Collaboration

Collaboration is how young children begin to build friendships with others. At first, young children will watch what others do and say, before moving on to playing together. As they get older, they become aware of other children’s feelings and ideas. Friendships become motivating and they learn how to make compromises and respect each other’s perspectives and skills.Ìý

Collaboration is enhanced through group work and project-based activities, sharing time with peers. Children thrive when they feel valued by the people around them, not just adults but their peers too.Ìý

When I think about the students we serve, those dreaming of studying in the U.S., sometimes from places far from test centers or perhaps with limited resources, I’m reminded why we do what we do and why, as a company, we evolve. Access to education shouldn’t depend on geography, cost, or circumstance. However, for some international students, proving their English proficiency has long been an extra hurdle to jump.

That is changing. And it is changing fast.

A new kind of test for a new kind of student

The ÃÛÌÒapp English Express Test was built with flexibility and accessibility at its foundations. It is available 24/7, can be taken from anywhere quiet and secure with a stable internet connection, and delivers results in minutes, with certification in under 48 hours.

That means no more waiting weeks for a test date or traveling hours across land (and sometimes sea!) to a test center. For students juggling work, family, or unpredictable schedules, this is a game-changer.

And it is not just about convenience. It is about equity.

Fairness, built in

One of the most exciting things about ÃÛÌÒapp English Express Test is how it levels the playing field. The test uses AI scoring that has been rigorously developed and validated by human experts. This reduces bias and ensures that every student is assessed consistently, no matter where they are from or what accent they have.

We’ve also built in overÌý90 security features including dual-camera proctoring, ID and speaker verification. So, institutions can trust the results, and students can trust the process.Ìý

Meeting students where they are

Today’s learners are digital experts. They expect speed, flexibility, and transparency. ÃÛÌÒapp English Express Test meets them where they are, both literally and figuratively! It is a test that fits into their lives, not the other way around.

And institutions are taking notice, with universities and institutions joining the list to accept the test for their future admissions windows. At NAFSA, we heard again and again how refreshing it was to see a trusted name like ÃÛÌÒapp offering a modern, student-friendly alternative.

This is just the beginning

At-home testing is not a trend. It is a transformation. It is about removing barriers and opening doors. And while ÃÛÌÒapp English Express Test is still new, to be launched to test takers in certain markets later in 2025, it is already moving towards helping students take that first step toward their academic dreams.

English not only opens up career opportunities beyond national borders; it is a key requirement for many jobs. It’s also no longer a case of just learning English for employability, but mastering English for business – and that means an on-going commitment to learn.

My experience is consistent with this trend. If I had to estimate the value that being fluent in English has had on my career, I'd say it was my entire life’s earnings. Learning English has offered me educational options beyond the borders of my own country and enabled me to develop the skills to work for global companies that operate across national boundaries. I have been privileged to work in different countries in roles that have spanned functions, geographies and markets – and my ability to learn and evolve my English skills has been an underlying factor throughout.