By Abhishek Srivastava

In today’s fast-paced world, pursuing knowledge and skill development is no longer confined to the traditional classroom. Ed-tech, or educational technology, has emerged as a powerful catalyst and has taken things over to a more significant extent when it comes to empowering working students to gain essential skills and excel in their careers. This transformation is not just about acquiring a degree; it’s about embracing a mindset of continuous learning, nurturing soft skills, enhancing expertise, planning for the future, collaborating with educational institutions, and venturing into entrepreneurship. 

Ed-tech platforms have played a significant role in facilitating these aspects of holistic education for working professionals. As per Exploding Topics, 80% of students say that ed-tech helps them improve grades, spend more time studying and learn more efficiently. 84% say they could use Ed-tech in multiple ways to excel in their careers.

The following points will help us understand how Ed-tech is helping working students gain skills: 

Continuous Learning:

One of the most significant contributions of ed-tech to working students is its emphasis on continuous learning. In a world where technological advancements and global dynamics are evolving rapidly, the concept of education as a one-time event has become outdated. ed-tech platforms understand the notion that education is an ongoing journey. They encourage students to adapt to changing circumstances, acquire new skills, and stay relevant in their careers by keeping their skills updated. By providing accessible and flexible learning opportunities, these platforms actively promote a lifelong learning approach that enables working students to thrive in a dynamic job environment.

Soft Skills Development:

Apart from technical knowledge, soft skills are crucial for career success. ed-tech platforms recognize this and offer valuable resources to help working students work on their essential soft skills. From effective presentation techniques to proficient public speaking abilities, these platforms provide:

Guidance on crafting compelling resumes.

Mastering the art of pitching ideas.

Conducting interviews as conversations rather than interrogations.

The subtle yet impactful art of storytelling.

By focusing on these skills, ed-tech provides working students the tools they need to excel in diverse professional settings.

Skill Enhancement:

Ed-tech solutions surpass traditional classroom learning by focusing on skill enhancement. They understand the importance of honing problem-solving capabilities, nurturing critical thinking skills, fostering leadership qualities, promoting teamwork, and imparting proficiency in various business tools. Also, ed-tech introduces students to emerging technologies and familiarizes them with project management software like Jira and Trello. By offering a wide array of skill development resources, ed-tech empowers working students to become Well-skilled professionals capable of tackling complex challenges.

Career Guidance and Planning:

Navigating the complexities of career choices can be challenging for working students. ed-tech companies step in as valuable mentors by offering career counselling and strategic planning services. Unlike a pivotal career decision, ed-tech companies have multiple use cases and data to guide students in industry selection. They help students identify their interests, passions, backgrounds, and self-motivation factors. The ultimate objective is to enable working students to align their skills with their chosen career paths, thus ensuring a more fulfilling and successful professional journey.

Collaboration with Educational Institutions:

Ed-tech companies understand the importance of collaboration with universities and colleges. This partnership expands the breadth and relevance of learning programs, making them more suitable for the needs of working students. By bridging the gap between academia and industry, ed-tech ensures that educational offerings align with the job market demands. This collaborative effort benefits working students by providing them with an education that is not just accessible but also practical and directly applicable to their careers.

Entrepreneurship Promotion:

Entrepreneurship is a path that many working students aspire to explore. ed-tech platforms actively promote entrepreneurship programs, creating a favourable environment for startups and self-employment. They facilitate initiatives such as innovation hubs, incubators, and engagement in startup ventures. ed-tech is vital in encouraging working students to turn their innovative ideas into reality. By providing resources and guidance in entrepreneurship, these platforms empower individuals to take risks, build businesses, and contribute to economic growth.

Ed-tech has become a driving force in the educational landscape, especially for working students seeking to acquire skills essential for their professional growth. Ed-tech platforms are reshaping the way individuals approach education and career development. As we move forward, ed-tech’s role in helping working students to gain skills will continue to expand, ensuring that they are well-prepared for the challenges and opportunities of the ever-evolving job market. Working professionals can confidently walk into the future, knowing that ed-tech is there to support their educational and career aspirations.

The author is CEO, co-founder, MBAtrek. Views are personal.