A framework for the key competencies of future learning

Competence-based education focuses on the ability of students to develop importantknowledge, values, aptitudes, and attitudes necessary to address complex issues they will encounter in their future personal lives and professional careers. The purpose of this study was to provide a framework for developing key competencies required of learners in educational systems.

This study was carried out with qualitative research method; In this way, by conducting  semi-structured interviews with 26 academic researchers, selected through purposive sampling (snowball or chain) and also using qualitative content analysis technic, the key cognitive, behavioral and social competencies of learners were identified and the conceptual framework of futures-thinking competencies was depicted. To validate qualitative findings, participant review strategies and reviewers' strategies have been used.

Based on the analysis of semi-structured interview data in two stages of open and axial coding, a total of sixteen subcategories and two main categories were identified as the main cognitive, behavioral and social competencies of learners. In other words, six indicators- Problem solving, Critical thinking, Creativity, Self-knowledge, Critical rethinking, Self-correction- as cognitive and metacognitive competencies and ten indicators - Teamwork, empathy, curiosity, communication and intercultural competencies, self-confidence, flexibility, individual and social responsibility, participatory decision making, Criticism, ethics- were identified as the main behavioral and social competencies of learners. Based on the research findings, the present and future generations need to acquire key competencies in order to be able to organize their lives in the current turbulent and unstable world. Therefore, in addition to basic competencies, investing in human capital (education) is recommended to develop key cognitive, behavioral and social competencies.