Principles play a vital role in a world that changes faster than organizations’ and people’s ability to adapt. The good news is educational technology (Edtech) is now changing how lifelong learning can help improve equality.
Education has been one of the main pillars of a better future for humanity. To a large extent, it still is. The potential of education to counteract class inequality and social injustice remains strong due to Edtech.
More and more people recognize the value of lifelong education in helping people improve skills or update their knowledge. Today’s generation is seeing an ongoing revolution in which online learning and online courses are becoming increasingly important and accessible.
Skills Gap and the Importance of Skills-Based Learning
The global skills gap is on the rise. The growing necessity to close the skills gap is a concern for all those involved in education and training. In today’s workforce, job security and wages are increasing. Unfortunately, those gains aren’t translating to the workers. Skilled workers are needed for the technology-driven economy. Organizations across all industries stress the importance of having an able, competent workforce that encourages innovation and adaptability.
They are responsible for not only identifying their skills gap but also investing in their team members with the training required to close that gap. Edtech has been a helpful contributor to improving equality by providing meaningful development programs that enable opportunities for flexible learning. This helps people keep up with the demands while also leveling the field because almost anyone can learn online from wherever they may be.
With the skills gap growing, a skills-based education through lifelong learning is more important than ever. Skills-based education requires institutions worldwide to adapt their education strategies to take advantage of this trend. The increasing interest of students in micro-certifications and how lifelong learning can be the solution for those who don’t have the time and money to invest in traditional education.
Lifelong Learning and Micro-Certifications
As the world progresses, education continues to reinvent itself. Although traditional forms of education meet some learners’ needs, many seem to struggle to get on board with what educators and employers view as the new norm.
Today’s learners are always looking for more ways to learn, earn, and help them start or advance their careers. It cannot be denied that traditional education has limitations, especially the time and money required to invest in it.
Lifelong learning through Edtech is achievable through micro-certifications, where you learn skills beyond the degree. It offers highly flexible and low-cost opportunities for skills-based learning. Without a doubt, micro-certifications are a great alternative to traditional education.
Furthermore, with the emergence of micro-certifications as a tool for lifelong learning, we are shifting away from conventional education models emphasizing theoretical knowledge toward real-life practice and skills.
Improving Equality With Edtech and Lifelong Learning
As the workplace becomes increasingly competitive, employees must have the latest tools and skills to stay relevant. Getting a further education is still an excellent option, but not an option for everyone. Therefore, access to quality and affordable education must be within reach and made available for many to improve equality.
You can solve the skills gap and reduce inequality in our society by taking advantage of Edtech and lifelong learning platforms. Moreover, your team members can sign up to earn micro-certifications that are cheaper than traditional degrees and are also available in flexible formats.
With the help of micro-certifications, lifelong learning is combined with experience-based learning. Learners still have enough time for work and life balance while they deepen their skills in a specific area they are passionate about.
Furthermore, micro-certifications allow learners to learn online to fit their specific needs at a time and place that works for them. Traditional colleges are expensive, and not all students can afford the tuition fee. Edtech allows a wide range of online courses to be available and help learners achieve their goals.
Edtech and lifelong learning bridge learners to opportunities beyond their degrees and workplace. By helping your team members upskill and earn micro-certifications, you also remove the inequality between graduates with degrees and those who opted for micro-certifications instead. Discover how Edtech and lifelong learning can help improve equality in your company or university.
