The State of EdTech: OPMs, Risk Planning, and Generative AI

Changing Higher Ed

In this episode of Changing Higher Ed podcast, listeners will gain an insightful overview of how technology is reshaping the EdTech arena and the potential risks of the current state of OPMs.

Dr. Drumm McNaughton discusses contemporary EdTech trends and predictions with Phil Hill, publisher of Phil on EdTech Blog and partner at MindWires LLC. They explore topics ranging from the recent changes in the OPM market due to enrollment, regulations, and cost of money, the potential transformations brought about by generative AI in higher education, to how universities can navigate the existential changes impacting them.

Key Discussion Points

EdTech Trends and Predictions:

• The recent shifts in the Online Program Management (OPM) market influenced by enrollment trends, regulations, and financial aspects.
• The growing importance of technology in education, breaking down traditional departmental silos, and leveraging technology to create specialized programs catering to specific student needs.

Significant Changes in the OPM Market:

• Challenges facing major OPM providers like 2U, Pearson, Wiley, and Academic Partnerships, including financial crises and market exits.
• The impact of these challenges on higher education institutions, particularly those heavily reliant on OPMs for their online offerings.

Risk Management and Planning:

• The essential role of enterprise risk management in navigating the current upheavals in higher education.
• The need for institutions to develop internal capabilities to manage tasks traditionally outsourced to OPMs.

Role of AI in Education:

• The transformative potential of generative AI in education, moving beyond current models to potentially revolutionize content creation and delivery.
• Challenges related to accreditation and quality assurance with the rise of personalized and dynamically generated educational content.

Three Key Takeaways for Higher Education Presidents and Boards:

1. Embrace Existential Change: Recognize the current challenges as opportunities to innovate and reach new student groups.
2. Humility in the Face of Generative AI: Acknowledge the transformative impact of AI and be prepared for continuous learning and adaptation.
3. Breaking Down Silos: Foster collaboration both within and outside institutions to develop comprehensive solutions to emerging challenges.

Final Thoughts

This episode offers a rich and comprehensive overview of the current state and future prospects of EdTech. The insights shared by Phil Hill are invaluable for higher education leaders seeking to navigate the rapidly changing landscape.

Understanding the trends, challenges, and opportunities discussed will be imperative for institutions aiming to stay ahead and mitigate risk in a technology-driven educational environment.

Read the transcript and show summary on our website →

About Our Podcast Guest

Phil Hill, publisher of Phil on EdTech Blog and partner at MindWires LLC.

About the Host

Dr. Drumm McNaughton, host of Changing Higher Ed® podcast is a consultant to higher education institutions in governance, accreditation, strategy and change, and mergers. To learn more about his services, visit his firm’s website: https://changinghighered.com/.

The Change Leader’s Social Media Links

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdrumm/
• Twitter: @thechangeldr
• Email: [e-mail]

#EdTech #OPMs #HigherEducation #GenerativeAI #StateofHigherEd