About the Episode
About the Episode: Universities are grappling with the unique challenges and opportunities to launch programs tailored for adult education and professional studies, which have expanded in recent years. In this episode, Dr. Jennifer Sparrow, Chief Academic Officer at the City University of New York School of Professional Studies shares insights into how CUNY SPS is redefining the educational landscape for adult learners through tailored programs, innovative technologies, and impactful partnerships. We’ll cover “what's next” for adult education and how these advancements are making a difference in students' lives.
Key Takeaways:
- Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) is a Game Changer: CUNY SPS has seen a significant rise in students utilizing CPL, with 50% of graduates earning credit for their prior professional experiences.
- Focus on Flexibility and Innovation: The introduction of tracks like data science and generative AI, as well as efforts toward competency-based education, address the diverse needs of adult learners.
- Partnerships Matter: Collaborations with organizations like Per Scholas, Empower, and In Stride are bridging the gap between technical training and higher education, leading to better career outcomes for students.
Episode Summary
Strategies for Engaging and Retaining Adult Learners
CUNY SPS has always been a leader in online education, and under the guidance of Dr. Jennifer Sparrow, they continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible in adult education. Initially known for offering the first fully online bachelor's and master's programs at CUNY, SPS has expanded its reach with new high-demand tracks, such as data science and generative AI. Dr. Sparrow emphasizes that while online programs used to set the institution apart, the landscape has changed, especially post-pandemic. To stay competitive, CUNY SPS is focusing on credit for prior learning (CPL) and enhancing the flexibility of their programs.
Sparrow is particularly proud of the CPL program, which helps students save both time and money by acknowledging the professional skills they've already developed. This initiative, combined with marketing efforts and front-loaded application processes, allows students to immediately see the value of their experience upon entry.
Tailoring Feedback and Flexibility for Adult Learners
CUNY SPS uses student feedback to refine its offerings, but Dr. Sparrow notes that improvements can still be made in gathering real-time insights. The current model involves course evaluations after the semester ends, which doesn't allow for immediate action to improve the experience. To address this, the institution is exploring embedded feedback mechanisms within the learning management system.
A major area of focus is on increasing flexibility, particularly for adult learners who balance work and study. While asynchronous learning provides some flexibility, hard deadlines can still pose challenges for working professionals like nurses with unpredictable schedules. Dr. Sparrow is exploring competency-based education models, such as Capella's self-paced programs, which allow students to progress at their own pace while meeting academic standards.
Maintaining Rigor and Innovation in Online Learning
Balancing flexibility with academic rigor is crucial, especially in online education. Dr. Sparrow explains that CUNY SPS maintains a cap of 25 students per course to ensure a manageable workload for faculty, who already face the demands of online instruction. Regular learning outcomes assessments and collaborative faculty development workshops are key to maintaining academic standards while continuously improving course delivery.
Innovation extends beyond coursework, with internships and experiential learning playing a big role in student success. Dr. Sparrow highlights the need for more flexible, work-based internships for adult learners who can't commit to traditional on-site opportunities. Partnering with organizations like Parker Dewey for micro-internships allows students to gain real-world experience, while initiatives such as credit for prior learning ensure that their professional experience is recognized.
Partnerships and Career Advancement for Adult Learners
CUNY SPS has developed strategic partnerships with organizations like In Stride and community-based organizations like Per Scholas and Empower. These partnerships are crucial in providing underserved populations with pathways into higher education and career advancement. By offering students credit for certifications they’ve earned in technical training programs, CUNY SPS enables students to apply their existing knowledge towards a degree, which motivates them to continue their educational journey.
One standout initiative is the Academic Pathways Partnership, which awards up to 15 credits to students entering CUNY SPS from tech training programs. This credit, combined with their work experience, positions these students for success in fields like IT, where a bachelor’s degree is often required for career advancement.
The Future of Adult Education and Professional Studies
Dr. Sparrow predicts that the future of adult education will revolve around more incremental and flexible learning paths. The traditional degree structure is already being supplemented with short-term, stackable credentials that allow students to continually upskill. However, the credential ecosystem is currently fragmented, and there’s a need for standardized definitions and transferable credentials across states and industries. Sparrow is inspired by organizations like Credential As You Go, which are working to streamline the credentialing process, making it easier for students to navigate their educational and career paths.
About the Podcast: Embrace the future of higher education with Mastering the Next. Dr. Ray Lutzky takes you on a journey through the dynamic intersection of student recruitment and leading-edge technology, uncovering the next big trends in strategic enrollment management and the innovations that are transforming the academic landscape.
Whether it’s exploring AI-driven enrollment strategies, navigating the challenges of online learning platforms, or discussing the unique needs of non-traditional students, Mastering the Next is your go-to resource for staying ahead in the rapidly evolving world of higher ed.
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