Edtech and Workforce Development News Roundup - 10/31
- Heather Harman
- Oct 31
- 4 min read
Our weekly roundup of education technology, workforce development, and venture capital news.
Education and workforce development continues to evolve, with recent research highlighting both exciting opportunities and pressing challenges. From the transformative potential of augmented reality in classrooms to the declining aspirations for higher education among high schoolers, and the persistent issues surrounding quality employment and mental health, these developments underscore the need for innovative solutions. Edtech companies and educational institutions are uniquely positioned to address these issues by leveraging technology, fostering experiential learning, and creating accessible pathways to success. In this week's News Roundup, we bring you articles that explore key insights from the latest studies that shed light on how education and employment are changing, and how targeted innovations can help shape a brighter future for learners and workers alike.
Examining the impact of augmented reality on students’ learning outcomes – This report explores the perceptions of students and teachers regarding the use of augmented reality (AR) in the classroom and examines its potential to enhance learning outcomes. The research finds that while AR can improve student engagement and understanding of complex concepts, both groups also recognize certain challenges in its implementation. The findings suggest that AR has a promising role in transforming education by creating immersive, experiential learning environments, which could lead to more effective teaching methods and improved academic performance in the future. Edtech companies can enhance AR efficacy by integrating multisensory feedback, such as haptic and auditory cues, as the study indicates that multisensory stimulation improves spatial learning and memory performance. This approach can make AR experiences more engaging and effective for learners.
A college degree is an afterthought among high schoolers – Recent research from the Pell Institute reveals a significant decline in high school students’ aspirations for college, with only 44% expecting to earn a bachelor’s degree as of 2022 (down from 60% for first-generation students in 2002) and overall enthusiasm falling sharply over two decades. This trend reflects growing skepticism about higher education’s value and attainability, compounded by negative perceptions of college costs, workforce preparation, and mental health support. Edtech and workforce development companies can address this issue by creating accessible, affordable online learning platforms, skills-based training programs aligned with current job market demands, and personalized career pathways that demonstrate clear value and practical benefits. Collaborations with schools to provide real-world experience, mentorship, and upskilling opportunities can also rebuild confidence in postsecondary pathways and help bridge the gap between education and employment.
60% of US workers don't have a ‘quality job,’ according to new research: The results are ‘sobering’ – New Gallup research reveals that 60% of U.S. workers lack access to "quality jobs" that ensure financial stability, safety, growth opportunities, worker agency, and predictable work structures. Workers in lower-wage industries and young professionals are particularly affected, with many experiencing limited decision-making power and unfair treatment. Edtech and workforce development companies can play a vital role in solving this problem by providing accessible training, skill-building programs, and mentorship initiatives that empower workers across all levels. Platforms that facilitate worker feedback and participation in decision-making foster a more inclusive and supportive work environment. By focusing on upskilling and career advancement, edtech solutions can help bridge the gap between entry-level roles and quality employment, ensuring all workers, especially youth and marginalized groups, have pathways to thrive.
What even is work-based learning? Here’s a guide – Workforce development and edtech companies can play a vital role in bridging the education-to-career gap by developing innovative, accessible work-based learning solutions. As employers increasingly value hands-on experience over degrees alone, EdTech firms can create digital platforms for micro-internships, project-based learning, and virtual apprenticeships that connect students with real-world opportunities. Workforce companies can partner with educational institutions to design scalable programs, such as short-term embedded projects or online experiential learning modules, that provide practical skills and build professional networks. By leveraging technology and flexible models, these organizations can help ensure all students gain meaningful, career-relevant experience, ultimately enhancing employability and meeting evolving workforce needs.
Only One-Third of College Students Have Positive Mental Health – A recent Healthy Minds Survey highlights that poor mental health, particularly anxiety and depression, continues to significantly affect college students, with only 36% reporting they are thriving. While some improvements are noted, such as decreased anxiety and increased utilization of mental health resources, many students still face challenges, including feelings of loneliness, disordered eating, and the impact of mental health on academic performance. The data underscores the ongoing need for comprehensive support systems within higher education. Edtech companies can help address this crisis by developing accessible, innovative mental health tools and resources that promote early intervention, peer support, and destigmatization, ultimately helping to improve student well-being at scale.
Accreditors Encourage AI Use to Boost Credit Transfer Process – More than half of students seeking credit transfer experience credit loss, posing a significant barrier to degree completion, compounded by manual, inconsistent evaluation processes. To address this, a coalition of college accreditors supports using AI to streamline credit evaluations, identify course equivalencies, and reduce delays and inequities. AI can analyze large data sets to enhance decision-making, provide timely information to students, and lessen administrative burdens, ultimately fostering a cultural shift toward more equitable and efficient transfer processes. Edtech companies can play a crucial role by developing and implementing AI-powered platforms that facilitate accurate, scalable, and transparent credit evaluations, helping institutions adopt innovative solutions that improve student success.
The future of education and workforce development hinges on our ability to adapt to new realities and harness technology in meaningful ways. Whether through immersive AR experiences, supporting mental health, streamlining credit transfers with AI, or creating accessible work-based learning opportunities, there are numerous avenues to make a lasting impact. By embracing these insights and fostering collaboration between edtech providers, educational institutions, and employers, we can build more inclusive, engaging, and effective pathways for learners at every stage. Staying informed about these trends is essential for anyone committed to transforming education and workforce systems for the better.