An infographic titled "The State of Digital Education" was recently published which portrays a story of the rapid transformation of digital technologies in K-12 and post secondary education. Published by Knewton, Inc., a learning portal company focused on the academic marketplace, the graphic addresses the size of the education marketplace, disruptive technologies impacting the education process, trends that are bringing education into the modern world, and new technologies which will work together to result in more effective learning solutions.
Knewton’s assertion is that the future classroom will consist of six inter-related technology platforms that will positively impact the effectiveness of learning. They are cloud computing, learning analytics, game-based learning, mobile learning, open content, and personalized learning environments.
These appear to be consistent with the core components of what we’re seeing evolving with new technologies for corporate training. Does this mean that all learners, regardless of age, learn the same way? Or that all organizations, K-12 schools, colleges and universities, and corporations have the same technological needs related to how their constituents learn?
In my earlier article about the trends that are reshaping corporate training, I stated that we are seeing a convergence of educational institutions (both for-profit, community colleges, and traditional universities) targeting the corporate training market - all for the purpose of generating new revenues. I think it bodes the question that if technologies are aligning, are corporations moving to a more academic model? Or are academic institutions becoming more business oriented?
There is no question that educational institutions are targeting businesses for new revenues. But I’m not at all an advocate, nor do I believe that the business models and approach to learning are becoming similar. Why? Because the reasons why companies train is very different from why societies have educational institutions. Educational institutions exist for the benefit of society at large by ensuring individuals get the skills needed to be positive contributors in that society. Corporate training organizations exist to protect the profitability of the business. They are mutually beneficial, but not the same.
So what do you think are the differences in how technologies are changing education and corporate training? Or do you think they are the same? Please review the infographic below and comment on what you are seeing in the market. Our readers would welcome your opinion.
Created by Knewton and Column Five Media
