In this issue, we celebrate some good news for higher education institutions as a new report predicts the increased importance of 4-year degrees. After that, we discuss public perceptions of the cost of college (spoiler alert: it’s too expensive) before learning more about one institution’s approach to improving the digital literacy skills of their students, faculty, and staff.  

After reading today’s issue, use the comments section to let us know your thoughts about Exeter’s innovative approach to digital skills development. 

4-year Degrees and Good Jobs 

From Workers with 4-year degrees will hold most good jobs in 2031, report predicts | Higher Ed Dive   

A new report from Georgetown University’s Center on Education and the Workforce predicts that two-thirds of good jobs will require a four-year degree or more by 2031.    

Our Thoughts 

Despite the recent emphasis on skills-based hiring, this latest report indicates that organizations still place a high value on the experiences gained through earning a four-year degree. This is welcome news for institutions as they attempt to address decreasing public confidence in higher education.   

In addition to emphasizing that specialized training and higher education credentials will be essential for future career success, the report also challenges the push towards non-degree pathways as viable alternatives. This is important as institutions determine future curricula and advise students on their educational pathways.   

Also, earlier this summer, we launched a new summer podcast series, ForecastED. In our first episode, we discussed whether college is worth it. If you want to hear more of our thoughts, give it a listen.  

The Sticker Price is Too High 

From Opinions of higher ed vary. Most agree it’s too expensive | Inside Higher Ed  

Although Americans do not agree on whether college is worth it, almost all feel the sticker price is too expensive.   

Our Thoughts  

I think deep down, many of us probably suspect (and possibly agree with) the conclusions drawn from this report regarding the cost of higher education. In last week’s issue, we discussed the complexity of tuition pricing and its impacts on institutional enrollment. This report further emphasizes the need for institutions to address their pricing models and attempt to reduce complexity for the average applicant.  

If we want higher education to remain a viable path for social mobility and financial security, we must ensure that it is not only affordable but also perceived as such by students and their families. The media portrayal and the stories being told about higher education are vital to this endeavor. It’s important that institutions play an active role in shaping this narrative.  

Encouraging More Professional Development 

From When it comes to digital upskilling, sharing is caring | THE Campus   

Katie Steen and Dave Weller used personalization to encourage staff at the University of Exeter to participate in digital professional development.    

Our Thoughts 

After two heavier topics, let’s turn our attention to a more cheerful article highlighting the University of Exeter’s innovative approach to digital literacy. This is vital in preparing staff and students to navigate an increasingly digital world, thereby enhancing both their professional and personal lives. Exeter’s approach exemplifies how institutions can effectively address digital skills gaps, promoting a culture of continuous learning and collaboration.  

Personally, I really enjoyed reading about Exeter’s approach to developing their program and getting organizational buy-in. I think it offers valuable insights for other institutions aiming to foster a digitally competent community. The use of existing in-house resources, extensive stakeholder engagement, and an agile development approach are practical takeaways that can be adapted to different educational settings. Understanding and implementing similar strategies can significantly enhance your institution’s ability to better prepare your community for future technological changes.