A Conversation with Tom Goodwin, Innovation Leader & Author of Digital Darwinism
In a recent interview with Nick Jonsson, MD with EGN SG, MY & ID, speaker and writer Tom Goodwin spoke about the need to revamp the education system to focus on skills that make humans unique, such as creativity and empathy, instead of training people to be similar to machines. Tom is a trends, innovation, and transformation expert, and the founder of All We Have Is Now (AWHIN, Inc), an innovation consultancy. He emphasized the importance of relationships and trust and suggested a complete overhaul of the curriculum.
Goodwin also
recently spoke at an in-person event hosted by EGN Singapore, where he discussed human-centered design, service expertise, and mobile-first thinking. He also shared insights on how businesses can adapt and thrive in the post-digital and post-pandemic age. The event showcased examples of companies driving change in the world and provided specific strategies that can be applied to culture, processes, structure, and thinking.
On the topic of technology, Goodwin proposed that companies need to prioritize research on the effects of technology on society and that they should use regulations as a last resort. He expressed his concern that many companies implement diversity initiatives superficially to tick boxes and that there is a need for more nuanced and thoughtful conversations around diversity.
Introduction
Tom Goodwin, a prominent writer and speaker, recently spoke with Nick Jonsson to discuss the current state of education and the role of technology in society. In this interview, Goodwin shared his views on the need to revamp the education system, the importance of relationships and trust, and the potential risks of technology.
The Need to Revamp the Education System
According to Goodwin, the current education system is outdated and no longer meets the needs of modern society. He argues that the focus on memorization and rote learning is no longer relevant, as machines can now do those tasks more efficiently than humans. Instead, Goodwin suggests that the education system needs to focus on skills that make humans unique, such as creativity and empathy.
He believes that the current education system is training people to be similar to machines, which is a dangerous approach. He argues that the jobs of the future will require skills that are unique to humans and cannot be replicated by machines. Therefore, he suggests a complete overhaul of the curriculum to focus on developing these skills.
The Importance of Relationships and Trust
Goodwin emphasizes the importance of relationships and trust in modern society. He believes that in a world where technology is becoming increasingly pervasive, the ability to build and maintain strong relationships is more important than ever before. He suggests that the education system should focus on teaching these skills from an early age. By emphasizing the importance of relationships and trust in the curriculum, students will be better equipped to navigate the complex social and emotional landscape of modern society.
The Role of Technology in Society
Goodwin acknowledges the potential benefits of technology but also highlights the potential risks. He suggests that companies need to prioritize research on the effects of technology on society and that they should use regulations as a last resort. He believes that technology has the potential to exacerbate existing inequalities and create new ones. Therefore, he suggests that companies need to be more thoughtful about the products and services they develop and the impact they have on society.
Diversity and Inclusion
Goodwin expressed his concern that many companies implement diversity initiatives superficially to tick boxes and that there is a need for more nuanced and thoughtful conversations around diversity. He suggests that companies need to focus on creating an inclusive culture that values diversity at all levels. He also believes that a diverse workforce is essential for innovation and that companies that prioritize diversity and inclusion will be more successful in the long run.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Tom Goodwin's interview with Nick Jonsson highlights the need to revamp the education system, the importance of relationships and trust, and the potential risks of technology. Goodwin's views on diversity and inclusion provide valuable insights for companies looking to create a more inclusive workplace culture.
Goodwin's ideas challenge us to rethink our approach to education and technology and to consider the skills that will be most valuable in the jobs of the future. By prioritizing creativity, empathy, and relationship building, we can prepare future generations for success in a rapidly changing world.
Dive in more of Goodwin’s thoughts on this topic by listening to his podcast hosted by Nick Jonsson.