In the midst of a globalized and constantly changing world, education faces new challenges that require profound adaptations in traditional teaching methods. Educational models based on socio-emotional education and a global mindset are gaining prominence in Colombia, marking a transition towards an approach that prioritizes emotional well-being, cultural adaptability and preparation for an increasingly interconnected global environment.
This change is a response to the results obtained in the PISA tests, prepared by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), where Colombia recorded a low performance in areas such as creative thinking.
This type of thinking, crucial in solving complex problems and innovating, has been identified as a key skill for the future of work. by international organizations such as the OECD itself. As a result, educational institutions are recognizing the need to develop programs that train not only in academic knowledge, but also in emotional and global skills.
“The idea that children should pay attention to a blackboard, copy knowledge into a notebook and then review it at home is absurd and obsolete. Great transformations are achieved through inquiry, understanding of concepts and the desire to live learning intensely. The figure of the teacher as the only bearer of knowledge must be left in the past. Awakening the passion for learning requires new approaches,” says Santiago José Castro, rector of Medellín.
Socio-emotional education seeks to provide students with tools to manage their emotions, foster resilience and improve their interpersonal skills. In this sense, Emotional well-being becomes a fundamental pillar of learning, allowing students to face challenges more effectively and constructively. By integrating these elements, institutions also promote a more positive and equitable school environment, where the comprehensive development of each student becomes the main objective.
On the other hand, global mindset goes beyond traditional approaches focused on a single cultural context. It is about preparing students to be global citizens, capable of adapting to diverse cultural environments and understanding global issues such as climate change, social inequality and human rights. This approach promotes intercultural empathy, international cooperation and a broader vision of global realities, crucial skills in a working world that increasingly values diversity and collaboration.
“This model includes know and appreciate different traditions and values, adapt to different cultural environments, and evaluate problems from a global perspective. “It also involves collaborating with people from diverse backgrounds and being aware of global challenges, such as climate change and social inequality. These skills prepare students to live and work in an increasingly interconnected world, promoting international cooperation and intercultural empathy,” Castro says.
The implementation of these models not only seeks to develop emotionally intelligent individuals, but also citizens prepared to interact in a global environment. Schools that have adopted these approaches are adjusting their curricula to incorporate learning experiences that prioritize deep inquiry, critical thinking, and leadership. In addition, complementary programs such as international exchanges and simulations of global organizations are helping students understand and actively participate in the challenges facing today’s world.
This educational paradigm shift is transforming the way students learn and engage with the world, preparing them not only to overcome academic challenges, but also to “become leaders committed to building a more sustainable and equitable future globally.”
