In 1990, 42% of U.S. adults reported using a computer at work, school, home, or other locations, even if only occasionally (Fox & Rainie, 2014). In October 2003, the figure stood at 55.5% of total employment only (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics , 2019). Over 13 years, computer usage shifted from occasional use at work, school, home, or other places to more than half of U.S. workers using computers specifically as part of their daily jobs.
The economic impact on workers with limited or no digital skills is strikingly evident in earnings data: the lower a person’s digital skills, the lower their income tends to be. Many workers with digital skill gaps are still employed in roles that frequently require them to use these skills (Bergson-Shilcock, 2020). People with fewer digital skills generally earn less money. However, many workers with limited digital skills still work in jobs that regularly require them to use computers or other digital tools. This means they might struggle to keep up or perform well in their roles, which can affect their job growth and earning potential.
According to a popular estimate, 65% of children starting primary school today will eventually work in entirely new job types that currently don’t exist (World Economic Forum, 2016). This is because technology is advancing quickly, and new industries are developing, which means the types of jobs people do are changing. Areas like artificial intelligence, clean energy, virtual reality and more, are likely to create roles we haven’t even imagined yet. To prepare children for this future, schools should focus more on teaching skills like using technology, problem-solving, and adapting to change. These skills are important because they help kids be ready for a world where jobs and the skills needed are constantly evolving. By learning to think creatively and adapt, kids will have a better chance to succeed in whatever new roles come their way.
Technology will continue to play a major role in transforming businesses over the next years. More than 85% of companies surveyed say that using new, advanced technologies and expanding digital access are the main trends likely to drive change in their organizations, making technology skills one of the fastest-growing essential areas for workers (World Economic Forum, 2023). Being skilled with technology is becoming one of the most important abilities for workers, growing quickly in demand. Companies increasingly need employees who can understand and use digital tools effectively, as this skill will help them adapt to new ways of working and stay competitive.
At ĀYŌDÈ, we’d love to hear from you! Do you have ideas or reflections to share?
Resources:
Bergson-Shilcock, A. (2020). The New Landscape of Digital Literacy . https://nationalskillscoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/05-20-2020-NSC-New-Landscape-of-Digital-Literacy.pdf
Fox, S., & Rainie, L. (2014, February 27). Part 1: How the internet has woven itself into American life. Pew Research Center: Internet, Science & Tech. Part 1: How the internet has woven itself into American life | Pew Research Center
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics . (2019). Computer and Internet Use At Work Summary. Bls.gov. https://www.bls.gov/news.release/ciuaw.nr0.htm
World Economic Forum. (2016). The future of jobs employment, skills and workforce strategy for the fourth industrial revolution executive summary. https://www3.weforum.org/docs/WEF_FOJ_Executive_Summary_Jobs.pdf