From an early age, we are taught the importance of education to our future success. We begin learning early and spend our formative years immersed in the process. Then, we enter the workforce, participate, and maybe one day become successful.

As technology has evolved, so has the teaching process. Over the past few decades, many have discussed whether education is outdated and whether degrees are the best way to assess skills or learning. Regardless of the right answer, we see many organizations adopting skills development programs, and individuals seeking skills independent of their employer. In Data Literacy, we have seen the emergence of multiple new companies to help fill this demand.

The World Economic Forum posted in their 2023 Future of Jobs Report that those without a degree show no evidence of learning at a different pace than those who do.

“Encouragingly, Coursera data show no evidence that learners without a degree take longer to achieve beginner, intermediate or advanced proficiency in any skill in the Global Skills Taxonomy (see Figure B4.2).”

What does this mean? It means that we need more education advocates than ever, and not everyone has a degree in education.