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Eric Lagally
Academic Director and Associate Dean at Western Governors University
Andy Shelton
Technical Learning Program Architect at HP

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How WGU & HP Are Building the Data & AI Literate Workforce of the Future

October 2023

Summary

Data literacy and AI literacy are becoming vital skills in today's rapidly changing digital environment. Companies like HP and educational institutions like Western Governors University (WGU) are implementing extensive data training programs to equip their employees and students with these important skills. Andy Shelton from HP discusses the company's method of building a data-literate workforce, highlighting the significance of foundational analytics and communication skills. Eric Legalli from WGU outlines the university's competency-based education model, which allows students to learn at their own speed, concentrating on practical skills in line with industry needs. Both speakers agree on the key role of adaptive learning and the need to regularly update educational content to match industry trends. The conversation also addresses the difficulties of learner engagement and the position of community and mentorship in creating a supportive learning environment.

Key Takeaways:

Data literacy and AI literacy are essential skills for the current workforce.
HP and WGU are investing in extensive data training programs to meet industry needs.
Competency-based education allows learners to progress at their own speed.
Adaptive learning helps adjust education to individual learner's needs.
Community and mentorship play a significant role in learner engagement and success.

Deep Dives

Building a Data-Literate Workforce

HP's approach to data literacy involves creating a foundation of analytics, visualization, and communication skills that are useful across various roles within the company. Andy ...
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Shelton emphasizes that everyone, irrespective of their job title, is a consumer or producer of data. By adopting a tiered approach, HP customizes learning paths based on job roles and specific business needs. Python and theory courses are particularly popular among employees as they offer wide-ranging applicability. "Everyone is either a consumer or a producer of data," Shelton notes, highlighting the universal relevance of these skills.

Competency-Based Education at WGU

Western Governors University (WGU) uses a unique competency-based model that allows students to advance based on their skill mastery rather than time spent in class. Eric Legalli explains that this model is particularly beneficial for adult learners who often manage multiple responsibilities. WGU's programs align with industry needs, offering practical learning experiences through partnerships with platforms like DataCamp. This method ensures that students acquire useful skills that are directly applicable in the workforce. "We focus on competencies so that students can be functional in the workplace," Legalli states, illustrating the practical orientation of their educational programs.

Adaptive Learning and Personalized Education

Both HP and WGU have adopted adaptive learning techniques to personalize the educational experience. This involves using pre-assessments to identify learners' existing knowledge and focusing on filling skill gaps. Andy Shelton mentions that adaptive learning can significantly reduce the time required to complete a course by adjusting content to individual needs. This personalized approach not only saves time but also increases learner engagement by providing relevant and useful content. "Instead of a 10-hour learning plan, it can be reduced to one or two hours of highly applicable content," Shelton explains.

Challenges in Learner Engagement

Engaging learners remains a significant challenge for both HP and WGU. Eric Legalli points out that community and mentorship are essential in overcoming this obstacle. WGU creates a supportive learning environment through virtual community spaces and one-on-one mentorship, which help students manage their learning process. Similarly, HP encourages participation by connecting learners with internal communities of practice and experienced mentors. "Most people prefer not to learn alone," Shelton observes, highlighting the importance of social interaction in education.