Introduction
As a speech-language pathologist, understanding the broader economic and societal trends that influence our work environment is crucial. A recent study published in the Journal of the Royal Society Interface, titled Small cities face greater impact from automation, provides valuable insights into how automation will differentially impact employment across urban areas in the United States. This blog aims to explore how practitioners, particularly those working with children, can leverage these insights to improve their skills and prepare for the future.
The Study's Key Findings
The study highlights that small cities are more vulnerable to the impacts of automation compared to their larger counterparts. The research indicates that smaller urban areas will face significant adjustments, such as worker displacement and job content changes, due to automation. In contrast, larger cities benefit from occupational and skill specialization, which mitigates the impact of automation.
Implications for Practitioners
For practitioners in speech-language pathology, particularly those involved in online therapy services like TinyEYE, these findings underscore the importance of adapting to changing skill demands. Here are some actionable steps to consider:
- Enhance Technological Skills: Familiarize yourself with the latest technological tools and platforms used in online therapy. This will not only improve service delivery but also make you more adaptable to technological changes.
- Focus on Non-Routine Skills: Automation often replaces routine tasks. Emphasize developing non-routine skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and emotional intelligence, which are less susceptible to automation.
- Stay Informed: Regularly update your knowledge about automation trends and their impact on the job market. This awareness will help you anticipate changes and adjust your practice accordingly.
Encouraging Further Research
While the study provides a comprehensive overview, it also opens the door for further research, particularly in the context of speech-language pathology. Practitioners are encouraged to explore how automation might specifically impact their field and the services they provide. Consider collaborating with researchers to investigate these impacts and develop strategies to mitigate them.
Conclusion
Automation is an inevitable force that will reshape the employment landscape, especially in small cities. As practitioners dedicated to creating great outcomes for children, it is imperative to stay ahead of these changes by continuously enhancing skills and adapting to new technologies. By doing so, we can ensure that our services remain relevant and effective in an ever-evolving world.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Small cities face greater impact from automation.
