In today’s rapidly changing global economy, “21st century skills” means much more than proficiency in basic academic subjects. One of the most important non-cognitive competencies for student success is conscientiousness, which encompasses traits such as perseverance, self-regulation, resilience, and responsibility. This policy brief provides an overview of conscientiousness and its relationship to student achievement, and presents issues for policymakers to consider.
Key Ideas:
Researchers have found that conscientiousness and its related 21st century skills are better predictors of student success than any other personality trait. This brief looks at the formative experiences and interventions that promote conscientiousness in the classroom as well as outside of the classroom, in professional development, educator preparation programs, and through parent/family support training. The authors give examples of steps that some states and districts have already taken and offer questions and recommendations for others to consider in terms of 1) supporting educators, 2) building parent capacity, and 3) enhancing existing research and resources.
For more information, please visit:
http://www.mcrel.org/~/media/Files/McREL/Homepage/Products/100_199/prod125_conscientiousness.ashx
