Evening Lectures - Ocala

Jennifer Gresham

THE TALK: Learning to Learn - Rethinking Education in an Age of Complexity

February 6, 2020

Abstract

As Zach Stein, a philosopher of education, has said, “Education today must prepare us for the future, even though the future is a moving target.” Whether we’re talking about competing in the global marketplace, preventing dire climate outcomes, or preparing the workforce of the future, the qualifications for success have changed. The future’s only certain aspect is its increasing complexity and unpredictability. Consider that the average age of an S&P 500 company is under 20 years, down from 60 years in the 1950s. At the current churn rate, about half of S&P 500 companies will be replaced over the next ten years. In addition to solving known problems, we face unprecedented challenges that will require individuals and organizations alike to become more adept at innovation and transformation. In this talk, we’ll explore how agile learning and organization provides the opportunity to drive economic prosperity and liberate human potential at scale.

Biography

Jen Gresham is the founder of Work for Humanity, a nonprofit dedicated to helping workers develop the self-confidence, independence, and technical skill to teach themselves nearly anything and demonstrate their capacity for more valuable and meaningful work. She is a Ph.D. scientist, Air Force veteran, sought after career and business coach, and successful entrepreneur. She formerly served as the Assistant Chief Scientist of the Human Performance Wing of the Air Force Research Laboratory, helping to guide a $100M research portfolio spanning the fields of biology, psychology, and technology. She currently lives in Seattle with her husband, daughter, and 3 cats.

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