Seven continuous trends in education

In this next decade of the 21st century, a good, well-rounded education could mean the difference between an evolving future or one dependent on low-wage employment and spells of unemployment. One reason the current boom in private and online education is a sector that continues to expand. What are the seven current trends in education?

1. A More affordable education

Despite austerity measures and cuts in state education programs, private and Internet-based education programs are closing this gap. Tomorrow’s graduate can study online but work part-time, and

attend a private or online educational course. This can be more affordable as student debt decreases as they are not limited to spending multiple years in college or university.

2. education for all

Before the internet age, few students had the opportunity to study outside of a traditional educational institution. The growth of these traditional educational institutions offering an online alternative and the fact that the Internet could be perceived as an information network. Allowing today’s students to more easily access information and choose a program that is more affordable and relevant to their needs.

3. Increased employment opportunities

Globally, a higher percentage of people are studying a course, degree or apprenticeship than in previous generations. This leads to more employment opportunities in education, especially in higher, specialized education. As our economies are globally connected, this trend should continue as internationally standardized tests and examinations become available worldwide.

4.A growth in self-learning

One of the greatest achievements of the internet age has been the simple fact that information is available with a click. It simply means that anyone interested in a topic can find a wealth of information through a website, video, or blog. This trend should continue as the online presence of educational institutions increases and Internet access becomes cheaper and more accessible.

5. The internationalization of education

Due to the high costs of education and the challenge of internet-based educational programs, state educational standards are falling in many countries. International exams are available online, and with the rise of home schooling, parents can bypass an often antiquated government system while their children study for an international exam. A child in Nairobi could in future acquire the same qualifications as a similar child in New York.

6. The need for retraining

A rapidly growing global economy means we may need to retrain more in our lifetime to be competitive in a global workplace. This need, coupled with a more challenging work environment, means that we often learn new skills in our spare time – often online. This trend is likely to continue as a new economy emerges over the next few years and new job markets are created with that economy.

7. A networked, knowledge-based society

Knowledge is fast becoming the new currency of our global economy, and as we connect via the web, those who provide that knowledge are the new income earners of the future.

Despite severe budget cuts in education, there is a very real substitute for a book-based classroom or university. Those looking for a future can find it online and even if the cost of ‘traditional’ education continues to rise, the alternatives may improve it in the near future.

Thanks to Mark W. Medley | #continuous #trends #education