News Roundup - 12/27
- Heather Harman
- Dec 27, 2024
- 4 min read
Our weekly roundup of education technology, workforce technology, and venture capital news.
In the ever-evolving landscape of education, several key themes emerged this year that highlight the ongoing transformation of learning and workforce readiness. The recent pilot of competency-based micro-credentials emphasizes the importance of aligning educational content with career aspirations, fostering inclusivity, and providing continuous support for diverse learners. Meanwhile, the growing interest in apprenticeships as an alternative to traditional college pathways reflects a shifting paradigm in how we prepare young adults for the workforce. As the edtech sector navigates challenges in funding and adapts to the influence of generative AI, the emphasis on innovative and practical educational solutions becomes increasingly crucial. Together, these trends demonstrate a collective movement toward creating relevant, accessible, and engaging educational experiences that prepare students for the demands of a rapidly changing job market.
Building Career-Ready Skills: Insights from our 2024 Micro-Credential Pilot – The recent pilot of competency-based micro-credentials by Digital Promise is set to significantly influence the edtech and workforce tech sectors, particularly in shaping how young adults prepare for their careers. By aligning micro-credential content with students' career aspirations and providing flexibility in topic selection, these initiatives enhance engagement among diverse learners. The emphasis on inclusivity and accessibility, as well as the provision of continuous support through onboarding resources and community engagement, fosters a more effective learning environment. As these micro-credentials offer recognized proof of skills, they can serve as valuable tools for edtech companies looking to develop platforms that support competency-based learning, while also aiding workforce tech firms in identifying and validating essential skills in potential hires. Overall, this approach underscores the importance of creating relevant, practical, and supportive educational pathways for young adults entering the job market.
Edtech Investors Avoided The Space This Year – Although this year has presented challenges for edtech startup funding, it also highlights the resilience and adaptability of the sector. While investment levels are lower compared to previous years, there have been notable successes, such as Physics Wallah's impressive $210 million round and Eruditus securing $150 million, showcasing strong interest in innovative educational solutions. The ongoing evolution of educational needs, particularly as institutions adjust post-pandemic, opens up fresh opportunities for growth. Furthermore, the increasing prominence of generative AI in education suggests that the landscape is ripe for transformation, indicating that a rebound in investment could be on the horizon as the sector continues to adapt and thrive.
25 Stats for 2025 – A well-rounded list of 25 data points to help higher education decision-makers in 2025.
Apprenticeships are a trending alternative to college — but there's a hitch – There is a growing interest in apprenticeships as a viable alternative to traditional college education, particularly in fields like heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC). But despite increasing demand for apprenticeship opportunities, the supply remains limited as many employers are hesitant to establish programs due to the perceived costs and complexities involved. While current statistics show a significant rise in apprenticeship participation, they still represent a small fraction of the workforce compared to college enrollment. The challenges include a lack of employer engagement, bureaucratic hurdles in setting up registered apprenticeships, and the need for streamlined processes and government support. Advocates emphasize the importance of connecting prospective apprentices with employers and providing the necessary resources to facilitate apprenticeship programs, as the imbalance between demand and supply continues to hinder growth in this sector.
The Year in Education: Our Top 24 Stories About Schools, Students and Learning – This year's article roundup from The 74 highlights the ongoing challenges facing our nation’s schools as they navigate the academic fallout from the pandemic, compounded by the expiration of federal relief funds. With student enrollments still struggling to rebound, many districts are confronted with tough decisions about potential closures. However, amidst these difficulties, innovative educators are exploring new teaching methods and leveraging technology to reclaim lost academic ground. The recent election has sparked crucial debates surrounding school choice and the role of education in a changing society, while immigrant students continue to face significant hurdles. Read the full list of pressing issues and the inspiring stories emerging from classrooms across the nation.
Three EdTech Trends Shaping Education In 2025 – It’s expected that in 2025 the integration of traditional education with disruptive technologies will fundamentally alter leadership and learning practices in schools. Educational leaders are tasked with navigating this new landscape where strategies must evolve to promote adaptability, human-centric skills, and cognitive problem-solving. The rise of Career Technical Education (CTE) enhanced by artificial intelligence (AI), augmented reality (AR), and virtual reality (VR) offers immersive learning experiences that prepare students for future workforce demands. Leaders are called to embrace a human-centered approach in AI integration, balancing efficiency with ethical considerations, and fostering trust and collaboration. To effectively adapt to these shifts, leaders can implement microhabits such as cultivating curiosity, integrating immersive technologies, and leveraging AI for relational leadership. These trends signal a transformative future for education, emphasizing the need for intentional curiosity and innovative practices to shape tomorrow's schools.
As we look toward the future of education and workforce technology, it's clear that education must continue to adapt and innovate in response to the evolving needs of students and employers alike. By embracing trends such as micro-credentials, apprenticeships, and the integration of technology in learning, we can cultivate a generation of career-ready individuals equipped to thrive in diverse fields. With ongoing collaboration between educators, employers, and policymakers, the path to a more inclusive and effective educational landscape is not only possible but essential for the success of our future workforce.