Our weekly roundup of education technology, workforce technology, and venture capital news.
As we enter 2025, the education sector stands at a crossroads, grappling with remarkable opportunities and significant challenges. The expiration of federal funding, rapid advancements in educational technology, and the pressing demands of mental health and workforce readiness highlight a pivotal moment for schools, colleges, and edtech firms alike. A common theme emerges in this week's roundup articles: the urgent need for effective integration of technology and support systems in education, prioritizing evidence-based solutions that foster connectivity, engagement, and well-being for students and educators.
Ed Tech Wishes and Worries for 2025 – At the start of 2025, the education sector faces significant challenges and opportunities amidst the expiration of ESSER funding and rapid advancements in educational technology, particularly artificial intelligence (AI) and immersive learning tools like augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR). Experts predict that schools will need to critically evaluate their technology investments, focusing on evidence-based solutions that truly address the needs of educators and students. The emphasis will shift from merely acquiring tools to effectively implementing and integrating them into the learning process, enhancing engagement and outcomes. As districts navigate budget constraints and prioritize research-backed technologies, there is a strong call for tools that support active learning and personalization, ultimately fostering a more dynamic and inclusive educational environment. The future of ed tech will hinge on reducing teacher workload through better integration and real-time data analysis, allowing for a more tailored and impactful learning experience.
State ed tech leaders call for ‘universal connectivity’ to help students learn on and off campus – The expiration of federal pandemic emergency aid has raised concerns among state ed tech leaders about the future of digital access in K-12 education, as only 27% of states plan to continue funding technology initiatives that were previously financed by federal COVID-19 relief programs. With a significant majority of school districts having utilized aid for edtech, the State Education Technology Directors Association (SETDA) emphasizes the need for ongoing local, state, and federal policies to eliminate barriers to internet affordability, enhance device maintenance, and provide reliable funding for digital access. This presents a significant opportunity for edtech companies to develop solutions that address these connectivity challenges, support digital inclusion, offer training for students and families, and ensure data security and technical support in the classroom. By innovating in these areas, edtech firms can play a crucial role in bridging the digital divide and preparing students for post-secondary success.
Future of Jobs Report 2025: 78 Million New Job Opportunities by 2030 but Urgent Upskilling Needed to Prepare Workforces – The World Economic Forum's Future of Jobs Report 2025 highlights significant shifts in the global labor market, predicting the creation of 170 million new jobs by 2030 alongside the displacement of 92 million roles, resulting in a net gain of 78 million positions. Workforce tech companies are particularly impacted, as the report emphasizes the rising demand for both technological skills in areas like AI and big data, and human skills such as collaboration and critical thinking. With nearly 40% of skills required on the job expected to change, addressing the skills gap is critical for business transformation. The report calls for urgent collective action from public, private, and educational sectors to invest in reskilling and upskilling initiatives, ensuring a resilient workforce capable of navigating the challenges posed by technological advancements, demographic shifts, and economic pressures.
What Is Higher Education Missing for Mental Health? – The 2023–24 Healthy Minds Study reveals alarming trends in college student mental health, with 26% reporting non-suicidal self-injury and 38% experiencing moderate to severe depression, highlighting the urgent need for proactive mental health support from educational institutions. As counseling demands surge, it is crucial for edtech companies to focus on preventive measures that empower students to develop essential skills before entering college. By integrating wellness planning into educational resources, such as pre-college programs and ongoing support, edtech companies can play a vital role in fostering student resilience and overall well-being, ultimately enhancing academic success and preparing them for future challenges. This proactive approach not only addresses current mental health crises but also establishes a foundation for lifelong wellness, making it a key opportunity for edtech innovation.
What is getting in the way of AI training? Speed, one survey says – The TalentLMS report highlights a significant opportunity for workforce tech companies, revealing that nearly half of surveyed employees feel artificial intelligence is advancing faster than their companies' training capabilities, with over half citing a lack of guidelines for AI tool usage. A notable 63% of respondents believe current training programs need substantial improvement, particularly among Generation Z employees, who are the least satisfied. With 69% of employees expressing the need for faster training delivery, and multitasking during training sessions being a prevalent issue—especially among younger workers—there is a clear demand for innovative learning solutions that enhance engagement and retention. Furthermore, a July 2024 D2L report underscores the necessity for continuous upskilling, but points to barriers such as time constraints and lack of motivation. This landscape presents a ripe opportunity for workforce tech companies to develop tailored, efficient, and engaging training programs that meet the evolving needs of the workforce.
Education for a Lifetime – As higher education encounters increasing scrutiny, what strategies can universities employ to innovate in workforce education while maintaining financial sustainability? This case study examines how the University of South Florida reinvented its Corporate Training & Professional Education division, turning a yearly loss of $60,000 into a thriving revenue source generating $6 million, all while addressing vital workforce demands through its Lifelong Affinity Learning model.
In this rapidly evolving educational landscape, the implications of these trends extend far beyond the classroom. By addressing the digital divide, enhancing mental health resources, and embracing innovative training solutions, we can create a more inclusive and resilient educational environment. As stakeholders in this journey, it is crucial to collaborate and invest in strategies that not only respond to current needs but also anticipate the future demands of students and the workforce.