World-renowned entrepreneur Sir Richard Branson recently launched DyslexicU, a free, online university specifically designed to teach “Dyslexic Thinking.” But how is DyslexicU different from traditional educational offerings, and why is Dyslexic Thinking increasingly relevant to our broader community?
The importance of teaching “Human Skills” in Distance Education
In a rapidly evolving world where AI and digital technologies are reshaping education, new research emphasises the need for “human skills” such as lateral thinking, complex problem-solving, and interpersonal abilities. These competencies are essential across all industries and are particularly strong among individuals with dyslexia.
The “Intelligence 5.0” report, produced by Made By Dyslexia, underscores that qualities like creativity, problem-solving, and communication are highly valued by employers. Kate Griggs, Founder and CEO of Made By Dyslexia, advocates for a shift in education and the workplace to recognise and empower these unique talents, saying, “The world needs to rethink the human intelligence needed in the 5.0 world. Workplaces and education must transform to value and empower this different thinking, not disadvantage it. There’s just one thing that Branson, in launching DyslexicU, got wrong. In his DyslexicU launch film, he states;
“Our way of thinking has never been encouraged by the old school of thought. In fact, it’s never been taught by any school of thought.”
– Sir Richard Branson –
However, at Hillcrest Virtual Learning Community (Hillcrest VLC), we’ve integrated these critical skills within our Distance Education offerings, and they have been part of the on-campus learning since 2017. Our SECRET Skills program (acronym for Self-Manager, Effective Participator, Creative Thinker, Reflective Learner, Enquirer, and Team Worker) equips students to identify strengths and address areas for growth in cognitive, social, emotional, and strategic skills.
Hillcrest Virtual Learning – Skills Framework – SECRET SKILLS
Hillcrest VLC’s SECRET Skills are rooted in research led by British educational leader Dan Buckley, who identified these attributes as desirable for both the workplace and higher education. Our students engage in purposeful learning, using skills that align closely with today’s workplace needs, giving them a unique advantage for future careers.
With the prevalence of AI and internet-enabled devices offering immediate information, “soft skills” have become a crucial focus in our Distance Education model at Hillcrest. Our online school integrates th ese life skills alongside core academic requirements. In Hillcrest Virtual Learning Community’s curriculum, students employ the SECRET Skills to set goals, engage in self-reflection, learn entrepreneurial skills, and develop emotional intelligence, all within a flexible online school environment. We love how our Distance Education Community within the Hillcrest VLC supports our families learn in a personalised way.
To find out more about our Virtual Learning Community (VLC) program, visit our programs page or contact our friendly Enrolments Team.
