Curation

Intersect With Earl April 2023

Earl Buford / April 13, 2023 / 8 min read time

In this edition, we highlight a major investment in work-based learning, a new take on the science vs. humanities debate, and a statewide convening dedicated to adult learners. You’ll also find out about a recent podcast one of my CAEL colleagues guest-starred in and, as usual, a plethora of other headlines that “intersect” with CAEL’s community of practice.

CPL and the mindset of both/and vs. either/or: As institutions fret about scrutiny of the ROI they deliver for learners, some continue to weigh “bought vs. brought” credits against each other. Yet one of the things we learned from CAEL’s research is that the wonderful benefits that CPL offers students don’t come at the expense of the institutions they attend. In fact, CPL students earn more traditional-course credits (i.e., the “bought” kind) than non-CPL students. (And besides, accepting CPL is the right thing to do.)

A surprising new take on the science vs. humanities debate: According to a study by Lightcast (a CAEL member), humanities and science programs have roughly the same success rates (in this case, defined as still conferring credentials five years after creation). The report reviews the influence of variables like the regional business environment, labor market needs, and even simple geography.

Grant opportunity: Through her organization, Yield Giving, MacKenzie Scott has posted a $250 million “open call” for community-focused nonprofits to apply for up to $1 million unrestricted grants. While educational entities are ineligible as lead applicants for this particular grant, this is a great opportunity for them to partner with a local community-based organization and support them in both their application and project design. Our local nonprofit networks often provide the resources needed by students in places universities and colleges are challenged to provide the necessary support. To apply, nonprofits must have an annual operating budget larger than $1 million but less than $5 million for at least two of the past five years. Applicants must register before May 5, with applications due by June 12. Make sure your local favorite nonprofit knows about this opportunity, and support them where you can!

Work-based learning and the “blueprint for EV futures: Ford is investing $5.6 billion to create a manufacturing site in Tennessee that will include the “blueprint for Ford’s electric future around the world.” To ensure the workforce is prepared to seize on the resulting opportunities, Ford’s investment includes K-16 collaboration and support from curricula and infrastructure assistance to experiential learning partnerships.

Adult learners take center stage in Leading Learner podcast … Christine Carpenter, our senior vice president of engagement, recently appeared on the Leading Learning podcast to discuss how credit for prior learning, competency-based education, microcredentials, and the broader system of CAEL’s ALLIES framework are interwoven within adult learner success.

… and hold the key to education, workforce goals: Recognizing that the success of programs aimed at increasing educational attainment and reducing labor shortages is tied to the success of adult learners, representatives of 52 North Carolina community colleges came together to collaborate on how to reengage adult learners.

CAEL member mention: I’m proud to note that Dr. Matt Bergman, a CAEL Ambassador and a professor at CAEL institutional member University of Louisville, was among the national experts in adult learning to present at the above-mentioned event in North Carolina. Matt spoke about adapting to better serve adult learners, an outsized demographic for community colleges.

Interested in learning more about CAEL memberships? Please visit us, and always feel free to contact us with questions or comments on any topic at cael@cael.org.