Digital learning is the future | Michael Vilardo | TEDxGrandCanyonUniversity

Key Concepts

• Digitization of entertainment and its contrast with the traditional education system.
• Prussian learning method and its influence on current education.
• The need for engaging and personalized learning experiences for Gen Z, Gen Alpha, and Gen Beta.
• Video-based learning as a solution to improve student engagement and teacher support.
• Addressing the systemic divide in education and promoting lifelong learning.

The Digital Divide in Education

The speaker highlights the stark contrast between the highly digitized world of entertainment and the relatively unchanged education system. While platforms like TikTok and Netflix captivate young audiences, schools often remain rooted in outdated methods.

• Example: The speaker's personal experience of a frustrating Zoom University MBA program during the pandemic, juxtaposed with the engaging content of shows like "The Last Dance" and "Tiger King" on Netflix.
• Fact: Netflix turns 28 years old, meaning Gen Z, Gen Alpha, and Gen Beta have never known a world without iPhones.
• Argument: The education system is stuck in the "stone ages" while other sectors have embraced digitization.

The Prussian Learning Method and Its Limitations

The speaker criticizes the historical roots of the education system, tracing it back to the Prussian learning method.

• Key Points:
  • Designed to build military workers, bureaucrats, and factory workers.
  • Emphasizes obedience over creativity.
  • Prioritizes standardization over personalization.
  • Relies on a "sage on the stage" approach rather than individualized learning plans.
• Example: The "ding ding ding" bell system, symbolizing the factory-like structure of traditional schooling.

The Need for Engaging and Personalized Learning

The speaker argues that the current education system fails to engage students and prepare them for the future.

• Fact: US reading scores are at a 30-year low.
• Fact: Gen Z learners spend an average of 49 minutes a day watching Netflix.
• Statistic: According to the Institute of the Future, 85% of jobs in 2030 don't exist yet today.
• Argument: Education needs to adapt to the digital age and provide more engaging and personalized learning experiences.

Subject: A Netflix of Education

The speaker introduces Subject, a company he founded to address the challenges in education.

• Description: Subject builds premium four-credit middle school and high school courses designed to engage learners.
• Goal: To provide engaging learning experiences and support for teachers through digital learning.

Video-Based Learning: Data and Impact

The speaker presents data supporting the effectiveness of video-based learning.

• Statistic: According to Ponopto, 85% of students prefer video-first modalities versus traditional lectures.
• Statistic: Video-based learning can increase graduation rates for students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds from 81% to 85%.
• Statistic: Students using video-based learning complete 66% more assignments and achieve 53% higher scores on exams.
• Benefit for Teachers: Video-based learning can save over 500 hours a year of teaching time through lesson planning, grading, and data analytics leveraged with AI.

Addressing Systemic Divide and Promoting Lifelong Learning

The speaker emphasizes the importance of addressing the systemic divide in education and fostering a love of lifelong learning.

• Argument: All students, regardless of their background, deserve access to the best learning opportunities.
• Key Point: Lifelong learning is crucial for personal and professional fulfillment, especially in a rapidly changing world.
• Goal: To develop a love of learning that extends beyond formal schooling, enabling individuals to continuously learn and grow throughout their lives.

Envisioning the Future of Education

The speaker concludes by painting a vision of the future of education.

• Vision:
  • Every student has access to content in their native language.
  • Every student receives a personalized learning plan.
  • Every teacher has a teacher's assistant leveraged with AI analytics and videography.
• Call to Action: To embrace digital learning and build a future where education reflects the engaging platforms students already love.

Synthesis/Conclusion

The speaker argues that the education system is outdated and failing to meet the needs of today's students. He advocates for the adoption of digital learning, particularly video-based learning, to create more engaging, personalized, and effective learning experiences. He emphasizes the importance of supporting teachers and addressing the systemic divide in education to ensure that all students have the opportunity to succeed. The ultimate goal is to foster a love of lifelong learning and prepare students for the challenges and opportunities of the future.