Based on my past experience as an AV Tech for a 3rd-party tech recruiter and negative past student interactions, I believe that soft skills are just as important, if not more so, than technical skills. If you don't have decent people skills or home training, you're DEAD in the water.

Comment on Jason Rostkowski's post: Since the advent of Pro Tools in the late 1980's, computers have become the catalyst in digital audio technology. It's not just enough to know audio hardware, but also how to manage the analog and digital realms based on what you are doing.

Lifelong learning means to keep on top of new methods and technologies in your chosen field of study. That in itself is a challenge for teachers, as well as students.

Comment on Jason Rostkowski's post: I agree with this statement. Also, taking personal accountability for your thoughts and actions should be emphasized as well. In this post-pandemic environment, I find that quite a few students don't do this.  The practice of 'Passing the buck' should be addressed.

Comment on Kia Eshghi's post: I agree with your statement. Many students do see writing as an obstacle and not important to audio engineering. Finding ways to bridge that gap is also a challenge, but necessary to break students out of their psychological shell.

Writing is important. Although a majority of my students are not superb writers, I do believe a lack in confidence or fear of negative criticism prevents several students to avoid writing assignments all together. 

I agree that 'soft skills' are just as important, if not more important, than technical skills and experience. Good customer service and listening skills go a long way in getting a job, keeping a job and excelling at your job. 

Intrinsic motivators are long-lasting and the most effective. Extrinsic motivators are good, but should not be relied on too much. 

Comment on Eric Lahtinen's post: I agree with this statement. The class should be a challenge for the teacher as well as the student. 

I can testify that a minimum level of competency is necessary for the field of audio engineering. Knowing how to operate a cellphone and not a computer makes no sense to me, but unfortunately i've come across students who live in this reality. Our Module 1 program starts off with basic computer training for the first 2 weeks, but every now and then some students fall through the cracks. Computer literacy vetting has to be stronger.