Skills education can provide adults without a college degree a path to a better life. But what's required to serve these learners beyond the promise of a credential? Jonathan Lau, SVP of Skills at Cengage, argues that it takes a holistic understanding of the unique journey of non-traditional learners.
For U.S. adults without a college degree, skills education provides an incredible opportunity for higher earnings and a better quality of life. But beyond the promise of a credential, what does it take to reach these potential learners?
In this session, Jonathan Lau, Cengage’s SVP of Skills, believes that effective skills education requires a comprehensive strategy to transition the learner into the workforce. Lau argues that skills programs often fail by simply funneling students through training. To prepare employable students, Lau says, we must remain laser-focused on outcomes: crafting learners into candidates who can acquire jobs and sustain careers. This requires a holistic understanding of the experience of non-traditional learners—and providing support at the pivotal moments that determine success.
Lau provides a look into the educational experience of adult learners and warns of the dangers of skills education that isn’t centered around real results. Lau will offer strategies for designing skills education around these experiences and share real-world success stories.