Recommendation

Learning strategist and longtime university executive Jason Wingard argues US colleges are failing to keep pace with the rapidly evolving skills landscape. Employers are seeking innovative training solutions to keep workers up to speed, as the market-based value of a traditional university degree faces precipitous decline. Wingard covers the history of higher Education, outlines recent tectonic shifts in the educational landscape, and profiles emerging alternative learning models.

Take-Aways

• For more than seven decades, the college degree offered an entrée to middle-class life.
• The market-based value of a university degree peaked around 2010.
• The four-year degree no longer guarantees employment opportunities for many workers.
• Alternatives to the college degree have begun to gain traction.
• New companies and technologies help universities extend and democratize their educational offerings.
• Innovative learning organizations are working with employers to address skills gaps.
• Some learning providers aim to disrupt traditional adult education.
• Other solutions seek to bridge the divide between traditional and alternative learning models.
• Employers and educators must accelerate skills-based education and hiring.

Summary

For more than seven decades, the college degree offered an entrée to middle-class life.

Before World War II, a university education primarily provided religious training for wealthy white men. As the economy shifted from the factories and physical work of the Industrial Age toward the offices and cognitive work of the Knowledge Era, however, the college degree gained wider relevance and importance. Employers came to view achievement of a four-year degree as evidence of an ability to persevere through a rigorous selection process, heavy workloads and test performance.

College students paid significant sums for tuition and books, and sacrificed earnings to pursue their education, but their investments generally paid off. They received the so-called “good jobs” that paved their path to middle-class prosperity and job security. Indeed, even when the COVID-19 pandemic struck in 2020, college graduates suffered far fewer job losses; most simply switched from working in offices to working from home. Yet by the time COVID-19 struck, a dramatic shift in the value of a college degree was already underway.

“The debunking and subsequent devaluation of the college degree is the result of the shift to a new world of work, one requiring a different set of skills that are not attainable during four years of college and that thus must be acquired in other ways.”

As far back as 2015, polls suggested that US employers were not getting what they needed from new college graduates. At first, firms supplemented new hires’ learning with training of their own. Of late, however, companies have begun to seek employees who can contribute from day one without supplemental development.

The market-based value of a university degree peaked around 2010.

Even at its peak, work that required a college degree constituted the minority of jobs in the United States. Sometimes a college degree proves the right qualification, so long as the curriculum aligns with market needs. However, many jobs today that pay a living wage don’t require a university degree.

“By 2030, a college education and the degree that assures it will be replaced as the dominant pathway for the kind of talent development that presages professional readiness and career success.”

Since about 2008, the economy began to shift away from the Knowledge Era and the golden age of the four-year college degree. At the same time, college costs spiked, while public investment in higher education declined dramatically. College debt mounted, even as the marketability of a university degree diminished. Not surprisingly, college enrollment dropped, while corporate spending on training and talent development rose.

The four-year degree no longer guarantees employment opportunities for many workers.

In the past, prospective white-collar workers would graduate from college, enter a career and require very little formal learning beyond. Mostly privileged young people would go through the admissions process, tinker around with various courses in their first year, then select a major area of study. They would listen to qualified instructors through classroom lectures sprinkled with discussion and debate, take tests, and, if successful, earn a degree. This traditional path can still be counted on to produce graduates with valuable skills.

“Most work now requires a level of technical ability beyond the ‘I can learn and achieve a goal’ baseline the college degree was originally designed to satisfy.”

But the strengths that graduates gain from a traditional college education have become less relevant as the marketplace has changed – and the traditional model of education has other weaknesses, too. First, admissions processes still favor the economically privileged. The often outrageous cost of a university degree excludes many otherwise qualified students who can’t afford it.

More than ever, the time it takes to earn a degree often doesn’t match with what employers need. University learning is often too far detached from the applicable skills a graduate will need on the job. Thus, the degree says less to employers about whether a new hire from college can adequately perform the work.

Alternatives to the college degree have begun to gain traction.

Today’s learners cannot follow a linear path: graduate high school; go to college; earn a degree; and get a job. Over the past decade or so, more cyclical models have emerged that emphasize continuous learning. Here, you don’t start your studies at a predetermined time or place; you can enter virtually anywhere, at any time and without gatekeepers like college admissions offices.

“A college or university education may not be necessary – certainly not for everyone. Prohibitive cost for a credential that has lost its efficacy begins to sound like a senseless proposition.”

Your learning goals might arise from financial or upskilling needs. New learning opportunities could come from a formal course. But, just as likely, they consist of online tutorials or “boot camps” that offer compressed skills acquisition, such as learning an in-demand computer language. You may need to demonstrate your learning practically, and take a test. If you succeed, you’ll emerge with a certificate, a badge or other tangible credential.

Aside from time and costs, the focus on timely and relevant skills’ acquisition represents the key difference in these learning pathways. A groundswell of EdTech and other providers has emerged to offer these sorts of learning alternatives to workers and employers. But this new model requires self-reliance: Learners must stay abreast of in-demand skills and wade through a growing list of offerings. They must assess the return on investment and often pay for programs themselves.

New companies and technologies help universities extend and democratize their educational offerings.

For many, the college degree and experience remains valuable and worth the cost. College at its best teaches you the critical skill of how to think, instead of what to think. New organizations have emerged to increase the value of a degree by making it more affordable, broadening access and connecting graduates to relevant work sooner.

These include Noodle, which aids students in navigating the admissions process. It also augments students’ education with online content during their studies. Where college curriculum might prove slow to adapt to the dynamics of the market, Noodle steps in with agile programs to supplement college courses.

“No one is predicting the end of the traditional college education as a viable pathway to success in career and life.”

Practera works with colleges to provide additional experiential learning. Programs are guided by real-world needs of employers. They offer online or in-person workshops. Learning focuses on skill-building through project work. Assessments focus on workplace applicability.

Western Governors University aims to make a work-relevant, competency-based college education affordable and available to all. It targets underserved demographics, including rural residents, ethnic minorities, low-income students and first-generation college students. It offers low tuition rates, fully available online classes and self-paced studies. Its graduates report average salary increases of more than $20,000 after graduation.

Handshake helps to complete the picture by connecting new graduates with employers. Handshake’s algorithms match student’s skills with employer’s needs; its online platform enables employers to reach out to students. Handshake also provides tools for campus career centers and helps connect students with employed graduates.

Innovative learning organizations are working with employers to address skills gaps.

Today, 40% of employers complain of a skills gap between what they need and what new hires can do. ZipRecruiter aims to reduce this gap by providing a two-way marketplace and algorithms that help match workers and employers. They emphasize skills-based job descriptions and how students can best prepare to qualify for these jobs. ZipRecruiter can also refer job seekers to online learning and certifications to close skills gaps.

Degreed is similarly focused on using algorithms, in this case, to deliver the right learning at the right time. Degreed specifically aims to assist managers in coaching workers and developing their own skills. Rather than offer original educational content, Degreed curates learning opportunities from a variety of providers. The system also gives employers a complete, granular picture of in-house skills at their disposal.

Guild aims at students who want to earn their GED and move on to college. It helps prospective students choose affordable, high-quality postsecondary education and provides academic coaching. Guild also helps workers tap into employer tuition assistance benefits, and matches employer and employee learning interests.

Ernst & Young provides an example of a large firm that has partnered with education providers to offer broad access to graduate-level education. Its Tech MBA, offered through Hult International Business School, combines traditional education with experiential, on-the-job learning. Ernst & Young supports a culture of upskilling to keep employees equipped with the skills they need.

Some learning providers aim to disrupt traditional adult education.

Some learners don’t want or need a college education. Increasingly, job seekers can identify an in-demand skill, then enter rapid-learning programs to help them acquire good jobs. Google facilitates this process internally. Its low-cost Career Certificates, provided through the Coursera online learning platform, are taught by Google’s own experts. The IT Career Certificate has resulted in new jobs, pay raises or promotions for 80% of its graduates.

The nonprofit Apprenti offers apprenticeships that place workers in paid assignments, where they learn in-demand skills on the job under the guidance of an experienced professional.

“Subject-matter experts, employers, educators, policymakers and learners all deserve a seat at the table, and all must have access to available data if they are to make wise decisions about what educational resources to invest in.”

General Assembly serves both individuals and companies. Learners can enroll in short, immersive skill-accelerator programs that boost graduates’ incomes by about 35% within five years. Its longer programs can cost as much as $15,000, but they put graduates to work much sooner than college. And they allow students to pay back loans based on their salaries after graduation.

Udemy, meanwhile, offers more than 150,000 low-cost, online courses taught by some of the world’s most respected experts. Udemy helps address the shrinking “half-life” of skills: It provides workers and employers with a platform for upskilling efficiently across virtually any competency.

Other solutions seek to bridge the divide between traditional and alternative learning models.

The boom in EdTech is helping to close skills gaps but adds to the complex landscape for learners and employers. Emsi aims to furnish education providers with the labor market data they need to create the right content, and they provide employers with up-to-date skills’ taxonomies. By breaking jobs and learning into the language of skills, organizations, educators and learners can make more precise decisions about filling skills gaps.

“Human resources typically constitute the biggest expense of doing business, yet far too many companies simply don’t know what they’re buying.”

Credly aims to validate the skills workers acquire. Its Acclaim platform provides badges that confirm skills attainment from a host of partner providers. Credly aims to give employers confidence in the people they hire.

Jobs for the Future links educators, employers, philanthropists and policymakers to promote systemic change in the US educational and employment systems. The Open Skills Network connects employers, educators and tech providers to create an infrastructure that supports hiring equity and efficiency.

Employers and educators must accelerate skills-based education and hiring.

Promote learning that will serve both workers and employers by following these five research-backed priorities:

1. Traditional education providers should adhere to adult learning theory, and field instructional design experts to develop and monitor curricula. They must build platforms that embed alternative learning approaches. Colleges would do well to partner with other entities to ensure their offerings remain relevant.
2. Alternative education providers should create a common system for credentialing and for hard and soft skills assessment.
3. Colleges and alternative education providers alike ought to aggressively reduce tuition costs and make learning more accessible.
4. Employers must build cultures of continuous learning and upskilling.
5. Learners need to create skills-acquisition plans and portfolios, and maintain them for life.

About the Author

Jason Wingard currently serves as chairman of the Education Board, Inc., a consultancy providing learning and strategic solutions for corporate and educational institutions. He previously worked as president of Temple University, dean of the School of Professional Studies at Columbia University, vice dean of The Wharton School, and managing director and chief learning officer at Goldman Sachs.

Review 1

In The College Devaluation Crisis, Jason Wingard argues that the value of a college degree is declining due to a number of factors, including the rising cost of tuition, the increasing availability of alternative learning options, and the changing demands of the workforce. Wingard contends that this crisis is having a negative impact on students, employers, and the economy as a whole.

Wingard begins by providing a historical overview of the rise of the college degree. He argues that the college degree has traditionally been seen as a valuable asset, both for individuals and for employers. However, he notes that the value of a college degree has been declining in recent years. This is due to a number of factors, including:

• The rising cost of tuition: The cost of college has been rising faster than inflation for many years. This has made it increasingly difficult for students to afford a college education.
• The increasing availability of alternative learning options: There are now a number of alternative learning options available to students, such as online courses, bootcamps, and apprenticeships. These options are often more affordable than traditional college degrees, and they can be completed more quickly.
• The changing demands of the workforce: The workforce is changing rapidly, and the skills that employers are looking for are also changing. This means that students are often graduating with degrees that are not in demand by employers.

Wingard argues that the College Devaluation Crisis is having a number of negative consequences. For students, it means that they are taking on more debt and graduating with less job security. For employers, it means that they are having difficulty finding qualified workers. And for the economy as a whole, it means that we are not producing enough skilled workers to compete in the global economy.

Wingard concludes by offering a number of solutions to the college devaluation crisis. He argues that we need to make college more affordable, we need to support alternative learning options, and we need to better align the skills that students are learning with the needs of employers. He also argues that we need to change the way we think about education, and that we need to see it as a lifelong process.

The College Devaluation Crisis is a well-argued and informative book. Wingard provides a comprehensive overview of the problem, and he offers a number of thoughtful solutions. The book is a must-read for anyone who is concerned about the future of education.

Here are some additional thoughts on the book:

• Wingard does a good job of presenting a balanced argument. He acknowledges that a college degree is still valuable, but he also points out that the value of a college degree is declining.
• Wingard’s solutions are practical and achievable. He does not advocate for radical changes to the education system, but he does suggest some specific changes that could make a big difference.
• The book is well-written and easy to read. Wingard does not use jargon or technical language, and he makes his points in a clear and concise way.

Overall, The College Devaluation Crisis is an excellent book. It is a must-read for anyone who is concerned about the future of education.

Review 2

In “The College Devaluation Crisis: Market Disruption, Diminishing ROI, and an Alternative Future of Learning,” author Jason Wingard presents a thought-provoking examination of the challenges facing higher education and proposes innovative solutions to address the evolving landscape of learning.

Wingard begins by highlighting the devaluation of a college degree in recent years, pointing out the diminishing return on investment (ROI) for students and the widening skills gap in the workforce. He emphasizes the need to reassess the traditional higher education model and explores the underlying factors contributing to this crisis.

One of the book’s strengths is its comprehensive analysis of the market disruptions impacting higher education. Wingard delves into the rise of online learning platforms, the increasing prevalence of alternative credentials, and the changing demands of employers. He presents compelling data and case studies that illustrate the shift in value from traditional degrees to skills-based competencies.

The author’s proposed alternative future of learning is a key highlight of the book. Wingard advocates for a more flexible and personalized approach to education, with a focus on lifelong learning and continuous skill development. He explores the potential of digital technologies, such as artificial intelligence and virtual reality, to enhance and democratize education.

Wingard also delves into the importance of cultivating critical thinking, adaptability, and creativity in students. He argues that these skills are becoming increasingly vital in a rapidly changing job market and suggests integrating them into the curriculum to better prepare students for the future.

Another notable aspect of the book is its emphasis on the need for collaboration and partnerships between academia, industry, and government. Wingard underscores the importance of aligning educational programs with the evolving needs of employers and fostering stronger connections between educational institutions and the workforce.

“The College Devaluation Crisis” is a well-researched and insightful analysis of the challenges facing higher education. Wingard’s writing is accessible and engaging, making complex concepts understandable for a wide range of readers. The book encourages educators, policymakers, and students to critically examine the current system and consider alternative approaches to ensure the relevancy and value of higher education in the 21st century.

While the book presents a compelling case for change, some readers may find that the proposed solutions lack specific implementation strategies. However, the author’s intention is to spark conversations and inspire further exploration rather than provide a detailed blueprint for reform.

In conclusion, “The College Devaluation Crisis: Market Disruption, Diminishing ROI, and an Alternative Future of Learning” is a timely and thought-provoking book that challenges the status quo of higher education. Jason Wingard offers a comprehensive examination of the devaluation crisis and presents a compelling vision for a more adaptable and relevant education system. This book is an essential read for anyone interested in the future of learning and the intersection of education and the workforce.

Review 3

In this timely book, Jason Wingard argues that U.S. higher education is facing a devaluation crisis due to rising costs, stagnating outcomes, and disruptive market forces. He makes the case that:

• College costs have risen at almost twice the rate of inflation for decades, leading to a trillion dollars in student loan debt. But student outcomes have largely stagnated, with degree holders often failing to gain the skills and knowledge promised. This creates a diminishing ROI for many students.
• New market forces like alternative credentials, online learning, and unbundling of educational services threaten the traditional college model. They offer lower costs, more flexibility and immediate labor market relevance – challenging the primacy of the 4-year degree.
• Colleges have been slow to adapt and reform, relying on their brand reputation and “stickiness” of the degree. But this strategic complacency means they are increasingly vulnerable to disruption.

Wingard proposes an “alternative future” of learning that breaks from the factory model of higher education and toward more personalized, competency-based programs. Key elements of this vision include:

• Unbundling credentials so students can achieve certifications for specific skills and knowledge, not just degrees.
• More direct partnerships between employers, colleges and workforce development programs to align education with labor market needs.
• A modular, on-demand learning experience that students can customize based on their career goals and timelines.

Overall, the author makes a compelling case that the status quo model of U.S. higher education is becoming unsustainable. Colleges must adapt and reform, or risk losing relevancy and market share to new competitors. The book offers a thought-provoking vision for how higher education could be reinvented to better serve students and labor markets in the 21st century.

Review 4

In “The College Devaluation Crisis: Market Disruption, Diminishing ROI, and an Alternative Future of Learning,” Jason Wingard presents a thought-provoking analysis of the challenges facing higher education in the modern world. With a keen focus on market disruption and diminishing return on investment (ROI), Wingard provides a comprehensive examination of the flaws and limitations of traditional college education, while also offering an alternative vision for the future of learning.

Wingard begins by shedding light on the changing landscape of education, where the rising costs of tuition and the increasing prevalence of online platforms have raised questions about the value and relevance of a college degree. He argues that the devaluation of higher education has occurred due to multiple factors, including the misalignment between curriculum and workplace demands, the lack of adaptability in traditional institutions, and the failure to integrate technological advancements effectively.

Drawing upon extensive research and industry insights, Wingard presents a compelling case for the need to reimagine higher education. He advocates for a collaborative approach that involves universities, employers, and policymakers in designing educational models that are more responsive to the demands of the job market. The author emphasizes the importance of cultivating skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and adaptability, which are increasingly valued in today’s rapidly evolving economy.

One of the book’s strengths lies in its exploration of alternative pathways to education. Wingard introduces innovative models such as competency-based education, apprenticeships, and lifelong learning, which offer more flexible and personalized approaches to acquiring knowledge and skills. By highlighting the success stories of individuals who have thrived outside the traditional college system, Wingard challenges the notion that a college degree is the only path to success and argues for a broader recognition of diverse learning experiences.

Furthermore, Wingard addresses the role of technology in shaping the future of education. He acknowledges the transformative potential of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and blockchain, emphasizing their capacity to enhance learning outcomes and bridge the gap between academia and industry. However, he also warns against overreliance on technology, cautioning that the human element of education must not be neglected.

“The College Devaluation Crisis” is a well-researched and thoughtfully argued book that tackles a pressing issue in today’s educational landscape. Wingard’s expertise as an educator and his deep understanding of the challenges facing higher education make this book a valuable resource for students, parents, educators, and policymakers alike. By presenting a comprehensive analysis of the problems plaguing traditional college education and offering a vision for an alternative future of learning, Wingard encourages readers to critically examine the status quo and actively participate in shaping a more responsive and inclusive educational system.

In conclusion, “The College Devaluation Crisis” is an insightful and timely book that provides a thorough examination of the challenges facing higher education. Wingard’s alternative vision for the future of learning and his exploration of innovative educational models make this book a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of education, employment, and technology.

Review 5

Jason Wingard’s The College Devaluation Crisis is a timely and important book that offers a comprehensive analysis of the challenges facing higher education today. Wingard argues that the college degree has become increasingly devalued in recent years due to a number of factors, including rising tuition costs, declining job prospects for college graduates, and the rise of online learning. He contends that these challenges are leading to a crisis of confidence in higher education, and he calls for a new approach to learning that is more affordable, flexible, and relevant to the needs of today’s students.

Wingard begins by tracing the history of the college degree in the United States. He argues that the college degree has long been seen as a ticket to a better job and a higher standard of living. However, he notes that the value of a college degree has declined in recent years due to a number of factors.

One factor is the rising cost of college tuition. Wingard notes that the average cost of tuition and fees at a four-year public college has increased by more than 250% since 1985. This has made it increasingly difficult for students to afford a college education, and it has led to a decline in the number of students who are attending college.

Another factor is the declining job prospects for college graduates. Wingard notes that the unemployment rate for college graduates is higher than it was in the past, and that many college graduates are working in jobs that do not require a college degree. This suggests that the college degree is no longer as valuable as it once was.

Wingard also argues that the rise of online learning is a threat to the traditional college model. He notes that online learning is more affordable and flexible than traditional college, and that it is becoming increasingly popular with students. This could lead to a decline in the number of students who attend traditional colleges and universities.

In light of these challenges, Wingard calls for a new approach to learning that is more affordable, flexible, and relevant to the needs of today’s students. He argues that we need to move away from the traditional college model and embrace a more diverse range of learning options.

Wingard’s book is a valuable contribution to the debate about the future of higher education. He provides a comprehensive analysis of the challenges facing higher education today, and he offers a number of thoughtful proposals for reform. This book is essential reading for anyone who is interested in the future of higher education.

Here are some of the key takeaways from Wingard’s book:

• The college degree has become increasingly devalued in recent years due to a number of factors, including rising tuition costs, declining job prospects for college graduates, and the rise of online learning.
• The traditional college model is under threat from the rise of online learning. Online learning is more affordable and flexible than traditional college, and it is becoming increasingly popular with students.
• We need to move away from the traditional college model and embrace a more diverse range of learning options. This includes online learning, apprenticeships, and vocational training.
• The future of learning is bright. There are a number of exciting new learning options available, and these options are more affordable and flexible than ever before.

Review 6

The College Devaluation Crisis: Market Disruption, Diminishing ROI, and an Alternative Future of Learning by Jason Wingard is a timely and insightful book that challenges the traditional model of higher education and its relevance for the modern workforce. Wingard argues that the college degree, once seen as the most reliable path to professional success, is losing its value as employers seek more agile and effective ways of training talent. He presents case studies from leading companies, such as Google, Ernst & Young, and General Assembly, that have developed innovative strategies for talent development that leverage alternative sources of learning, such as online platforms, microcredentials, and apprenticeships. Wingard also urges higher education institutions to adapt to the changing needs of learners and employers, or risk being replaced by more responsive and flexible providers. The book is written for managers who want to understand the current and future trends in talent development, as well as for educators who want to rethink their role and value proposition in the evolving landscape of learning. Wingard offers practical advice and recommendations for both groups on how to create a more dynamic and effective learning ecosystem that can meet the demands of the 21st century workplace.

Review 7

Jason Wingard’s “The College Devaluation Crisis: Market Disruption, Diminishing ROI, and an Alternative Future of Learning” presents a thought-provoking analysis of the challenges facing higher education in the modern era. With incisive insights and a forward-looking approach, Wingard delves into the complexities of the college devaluation crisis and proposes innovative solutions for reshaping the future of learning.

The book’s central premise revolves around the shifting dynamics of the traditional higher education model. Wingard contends that the rising costs of college education, coupled with concerns over the return on investment (ROI), have led to a perception of diminishing value in the eyes of students and employers. He skillfully dissects the root causes of this devaluation crisis, from the impact of technological disruption to the changing demands of the job market.

Wingard’s writing is marked by its clarity and depth. He seamlessly weaves together statistical data, case studies, and expert opinions to construct a comprehensive narrative. His prose is accessible, making complex concepts understandable to a wide range of readers. Through a balanced blend of evidence and analysis, Wingard builds a compelling argument that demands attention from educators, policymakers, and anyone invested in the future of higher education.

One of the book’s strengths is its emphasis on practical solutions. Rather than merely diagnosing the problem, Wingard offers a pragmatic blueprint for reimagining the future of learning. He introduces the concept of an alternative education ecosystem, highlighting the importance of lifelong learning, experiential education, and a stronger alignment between academia and industry. This forward-thinking perspective provides readers with tangible strategies for addressing the challenges outlined in the book.

Wingard’s incorporation of diverse viewpoints adds richness to the discussion. He engages with a variety of stakeholders, including students, educators, employers, and policymakers. By presenting a range of perspectives, Wingard ensures that his analysis is both well-rounded and reflective of the complex nature of the college devaluation crisis.

In conclusion, “The College Devaluation Crisis: Market Disruption, Diminishing ROI, and an Alternative Future of Learning” by Jason Wingard is a timely and essential read for anyone interested in the future of higher education. Wingard’s expertise shines through as he navigates the nuances of a complex issue, offering both a clear diagnosis of the problem and innovative solutions to address it. With its insightful analysis and actionable recommendations, this book contributes to the ongoing dialogue about the changing landscape of education and the imperative for adaptive, student-centric learning models.

Review 8

The College Devaluation Crisis is a book that examines the current and future challenges facing the higher education sector and the workforce in the digital age. The book argues that the traditional college degree is losing its value and relevance as employers and learners seek more agile and effective ways of acquiring and updating skills. The book proposes that employers and other learning and development entities are emerging to innovate new approaches to training talent that, at times, relies on the higher education sector, but increasingly operates independently in order to satisfy talent needs more efficiently and affordably.

The book is divided into three parts. The first part analyzes the causes and consequences of the college devaluation crisis, such as the rising costs and debts of college education, the mismatch between college curricula and market demands, the disruption and competition from technology and globalization, and the changing expectations and preferences of learners and employers. The second part presents some case studies and best practices from leading companies, such as Google, Ernst & Young, and General Assembly, that have developed their own talent development strategies and programs that bypass or supplement the traditional college degree. The third part offers some recommendations and implications for various stakeholders, such as higher education institutions, employers, policymakers, learners, and parents, on how to adapt and thrive in the new learning landscape.

The book is written in a clear and engaging style, with plenty of data, graphs, tables, and images to illustrate and support the arguments. The book also uses anecdotes, stories, interviews, and examples to showcase the experiences and perspectives of various actors involved in the college devaluation crisis. The book is suitable for anyone who is interested in understanding the current trends and future directions of higher education and workforce development.

The College Devaluation Crisis is a book that will challenge your assumptions and beliefs about the role and value of college education in today’s economy and society. It is a book that will provide you with insights and information on how to navigate the complexities and opportunities of the digital era. It is a book that will make you more aware, informed, and prepared for your personal and professional growth.

Review 9

In “The College Devaluation Crisis” by Jason Wingard, the author delves into the challenges and disruptions facing the traditional higher education system. With a keen eye on the diminishing return on investment (ROI) for college degrees, Wingard presents a thought-provoking exploration of the future of learning and alternative pathways to success.

• Critical analysis: Wingard provides a critical analysis of the current state of higher education, highlighting the factors contributing to the devaluation of college degrees. He examines rising tuition costs, student debt, and the widening gap between the skills required by employers and those taught in traditional academic settings.
• Diminishing ROI: The book explores the diminishing ROI associated with college degrees, questioning whether the traditional four-year college experience is still the most effective path to career success. Wingard presents data and case studies to support the argument that alternative learning pathways, such as vocational training and apprenticeships, can offer comparable or even superior outcomes for certain individuals.
• Market disruption: The author discusses the disruptive forces that are reshaping the higher education landscape, including online learning platforms, micro-credentials, and the increasing demand for lifelong learning. Wingard explores how these disruptors are challenging the traditional model of higher education and presenting new opportunities for individuals to acquire relevant skills and knowledge.
• Alternative future of learning: One of the key strengths of this book is its focus on presenting alternative futures for learning. Wingard proposes innovative approaches, such as competency-based education, stackable credentials, and employer-driven training programs, which can provide individuals with the skills needed to thrive in the evolving job market.
• Thought-provoking ideas: “The College Devaluation Crisis” prompts readers to question the prevailing assumptions about the value of a college degree. Wingard challenges the notion that a traditional four-year degree is the only path to success and encourages readers to consider alternative pathways that may better align with their goals and aspirations.
• Comprehensive research: The book is well-supported by research, with Wingard drawing on a wide range of sources to back up his arguments. From statistical data to academic studies and industry reports, the author provides a solid foundation for his analysis and recommendations.
• Accessible writing style: Despite dealing with complex issues, Wingard’s writing style remains accessible and engaging. He presents concepts and ideas in a clear and concise manner, making the book approachable for readers with varying levels of familiarity with the subject matter.

In conclusion, “The College Devaluation Crisis” by Jason Wingard offers a thought-provoking examination of the challenges facing the traditional higher education system. With its critical analysis, research-backed arguments, and exploration of alternative learning pathways, the book provides valuable insights for individuals seeking to make informed decisions about their educational and career paths. Whether you are a student, parent, educator, or policymaker, this book serves as a catalyst for important conversations about the future of learning and the evolving needs of the job market.

Review 10

I have read the book The College Devaluation Crisis: Market Disruption, Diminishing ROI, and an Alternative Future of Learning by Jason Wingard and here is my review:

The College Devaluation Crisis is a book that examines the current state and future prospects of higher education in the context of the digital economy. The book argues that the traditional college degree is losing its value and relevance as employers and learners seek more agile and effective ways of acquiring and updating skills. The book proposes that higher education institutions need to adapt to the changing market demands and embrace the opportunities of data and digital ecosystems. The book also provides some examples and recommendations for managers, educators, and learners on how to navigate and benefit from the new learning landscape.

The book is written in a clear and engaging style, with a blend of research, analysis, and storytelling. The book draws on the author’s expertise as a president of a university, a professor of management, and a consultant for various organizations. The book is timely and relevant, as it addresses one of the most pressing issues facing the education sector and the workforce today: how to prepare for the future of work in the digital era. The book is suitable for anyone who is interested in learning more about the challenges and opportunities of higher education and career development.

However, the book also has some limitations. The book is relatively short, only 272 pages, and does not provide much depth or detail on some of the topics or concepts that it introduces. The book relies heavily on the author’s own framework and perspective, which may not be applicable or valid for every situation or context. The book also does not address some of the ethical or social implications of data sharing and digital ecosystems, such as privacy, security, trust, or fairness. The book may be too optimistic or simplistic for some readers who are looking for more critical or nuanced insights.

Overall, The College Devaluation Crisis is an informative and provocative read that offers a new perspective on how higher education institutions can leverage data and digital ecosystems to create a new competitive strategy. The book may be helpful for those who are looking for a basic introduction or overview of the topic, or who want to learn from the author’s experience and expertise. However, the book may not be enough for those who are looking for more comprehensive, in-depth, or customized guidance. The book may be best used as a starting point or a supplement to other resources on higher education and career development.

Review 11

The College Devaluation Crisis: Market Disruption, Diminishing ROI, and an Alternative Future of Learning by Jason Wingard is a book that examines the challenges and opportunities facing higher education and workforce development in the 21st century. The book argues that the traditional model of college education is becoming obsolete and irrelevant in the face of rapid technological, economic, and social changes. The book claims that college degrees are losing their value and credibility as indicators of skills and competencies, and that employers are increasingly looking for alternative credentials and pathways to hire and retain talent. The book proposes a new vision and framework for learning that is more flexible, personalized, accessible, and aligned with the needs and expectations of the modern labor market.

The book is aimed at educators, policymakers, employers, students, and parents who want to understand and respond to the college devaluation crisis and prepare for the future of learning and work. The book is based on the author’s extensive experience and expertise as a scholar, practitioner, and leader in the fields of education, business, and public policy. The book is supported by data, research, and case studies from various sectors and regions, such as Google, IBM, Coursera, edX, Udacity, LinkedIn, Walmart, Starbucks, McDonald’s, AT&T, Verizon, General Assembly, Minerva Schools, Arizona State University, Southern New Hampshire University, Western Governors University, Singapore SkillsFuture, European Qualifications Framework, and more.

The book is a timely and provocative guide that can help readers navigate and shape the future of learning and work. The book offers insights, recommendations, and best practices that can help readers create and access learning opportunities that are relevant, affordable, engaging, and impactful. The book is highly recommended for anyone who wants to overcome the college devaluation crisis and embrace an alternative future of learning.👍

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