In August, we shared part one of our interview with Dr. Bridget Burns, founding CEO of the University Innovation Alliance (UIA). In this discussion, Dr. Burns detailed how Georgia State University’s Accelerator Academy works to address high rates of Ds, Fs, and withdrawals in gateway courses, as well as how UIA is working to implement the program at its other member institutions. Ascendium is supporting this work as part of our investment priority to scale the widespread adoption of evidence-based practices that drive equitable student outcomes.
In part two of our interview, Dr. Burns shares why it’s the right time for this work and how UIA plans to share its findings with the field.
Q: Why are these institutions willing to commit resources to adapting elements of this model now?
Q: What other innovations or lessons learned from the COVID-19 health crisis are UIA institutions holding onto?
Q: What are UIA institutions learning from their students?
Q: How does UIA think about testing innovations and disseminating findings about what works to the broader network and field?
Q: How can we ensure learners from low-income backgrounds are centered in postsecondary education reforms?
Exploring Innovative Financing Models to Strengthen Talent Pipelines
Opportunities exist for integral stakeholders to form partnerships and explore effective and sustainable financing models for workforce training programs. A grant to Social Finance will encourage this coordination, which we envision leading to more robust, equitable training options for learners from low-income backgrounds to achieve upward mobility.
How Postsecondary Education in Prison Pathways Empower Incarcerated Learners to Reach Their Full Potential
In observance of Second Chance Month, we're shining a spotlight on postsecondary education in prison pathways. As the White House and others encourage a more comprehensive approach to educating incarcerated learners, it’s imperative that we design clear pathways supported by essential wraparound services. This enables incarcerated learners to seamlessly enter postsecondary education programs while incarcerated and gain valuable credentials and workforce opportunities upon release.