Redesigning Learning Spaces and Credentials for 21st-Century Emerging Tech Careers
Abstract: With the rise of “Do-It-Yourself" approach, a shift to new paradigms in accessing education has spread out and disrupt the strict linear higher education pathway. Internet and digital technologies changed the approach to learning and teaching. From digital learning to competency-based education, 21st century learners acquire knowledge, skills, and abilities in new ways to meet tomorrow’s workforce needs, in particular in the area of emerging technologies. Additionally, with the influx of nontraditional adult students, these educational innovations can best prepare learners for EmTech careers and provide them a more affordable, convenient, and practical-oriented education without sacrificing quality learning. This paper discusses educational pathways, both informal and formal, to gain knowledge and skills in EmTech as well as addresses the continuous reshaping of higher education to take into consideration various experiences of learning so learners can further their education with credit programs.