For the growing demographic of non-traditional learners, a hybrid education allows them enough flexibility to succeed despite everyday challenges that might arise, such as a job conflict or a sick child. During the past two years, students have become used to having this level of flexibility in their degree programs and will be looking to continue in programs that deliver classes how and where they want them.
Students Want Bite-Sized Education
Traditionally, one of the key values of a four-year degree was its ability to demonstrate to businesses that the degree holder has competency in performing specific tasks. The rapid evolution of technology has created a skills gap, and has left employers struggling to find employees with the hard skills and experience required for the job.
Students who want to secure lucrative “new economy” jobs as they arise will be looking to gain skills quickly. They need short, bite-sized credentialling programs—such as those offered via micro-credentials—that allow them to learn necessary and demonstrable skills without committing to a full-time degree.
But it’s not only students who will be looking for bite-sized education opportunities, as some businesses are already looking for educational partners to help them upskill their workforce. Some are looking to enroll employees in courses that already exist, while others want local institutions to create programs of study to help workers reskill. As students and businesses alike seek out credentials and even micro-credentials, they’ll be looking for an education that gives them the skills they need as quickly as possible.
Students Want Personalized Learning Experiences
Many of today’s learners—particularly the growing demographic of non-traditional students—are beginning their college experiences already possessing awareness of the skills they need to advance in the careers they want. Part of why hybrid and bite-sized educational models are so attractive is that they enable learners to fully personalize their educations. Many students don’t wish to sign on to a one-size-fits-all educational program. Instead, they want to select courses they wish to take in the medium most convenient for them, be that in person, hybrid, or entirely online. In the future, students may even want the agency to create their own curriculum by choosing courses from different schools, combining a personalized learning program into a credential that they can show to a current or future employer.
In other cases, students may enter their undergraduate careers looking for help tailoring their educations to their skillsets and interest. They’ll need guidance on selecting programs and courses that can help them land a more lucrative job. Advisors can help students identify skills as well as help them personalize a course of study that enables them to meet future professional demands.
Preparing for the Future of Higher Education
Declining enrollments combined with the demands of students and businesses are forcing institutions to re-evaluate the way they offer, package, and present education. Schools looking to remain relevant and continue providing value to their students will need to change their mindset and approach to delivering education. While change can be uncomfortable, it doesn’t need to be painful. Modern technology allows colleges and universities to offer hybrid education and bite-sized courses that can help personalize the student learning experience. New, innovative partnerships that encompass third-party content providers, employers, and bootcamps while still keeping the institution in control of the education experience are the kind of forward-looking strategies that can help institutions put programs in place that best serve their student bodies.
Omer Riaz is Vice President of Strategy & Innovation at Jenzabar.
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