An online survey conducted by a local educational organisation revealed that Taiwanese pupils aged 11-18 believe obtaining good skills of ‘foreign languages’, ‘communications’ and ‘problem-solving’ will enable them to cope with challenges from the future effectively. Of 8,695 respondents, 67% indicated ‘foreign language skills’ were the one they lack the most and over 70% respondents at secondary education level reckoned they need to improve their English proficiency. Meanwhile, the survey also suggested nearly half of the students worried their jobs may be replaced by AI or robots in future. In terms of the most designable career amongst respondents, ‘online game designer/professional e-sport player’ claimed the first place at 27%, followed by ‘chief/food critic’ and ‘livestream Internet celebrity’. The surveyor also emphasised the impact of technology has expanded from individuals to the society in Taiwan. The influence of new media is becoming more and more important to young generation when they explore future careers.

Source:

Most students see value in language skills, Taipei Times
http://www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2019/12/26/2003728211

Comments by Karen Hsu, Education Services Manager, Hong Kong

In Taiwan, the mindset of good foreign skills opening a door to successful career has been entrenched deeply within the society. Therefore, there is no surprise to see that most of local pupils would choose it as the most important soft skill out of the others. During school vocations, students from local schools and universities are keen to enrol study abroad programmes, such as: summer camp, language holidays, student exchange or short-term English for Specific Purpose (ESP) courses to improve their language skills. This survey reflects a trend of subject interests amongst local students, which is in accordance with feedback through our meetings with local school counsellors and agent regarding high-demand stubject areas (e.g. E-commerce, digital marketing, communications & social media studies and technology). UK institutions are suggested to share interesting, real-life, inspiring stories (e.g. a typical day at a UK university, field trip) with prospective students via social media channels. The top 3 popular social media in Taiwan are YouTube, Facebook and LINE (an instant communicator). If you have any questions about the Taiwan market, please contact the North East Asia team at karen.hsu@britishcouncil.org.hk in Hong Kong.