New White Paper Demonstrates the Potential of Adaptive Learning Technology to Help Drive Equity at Scale in U.S. Higher Education

The new white paper from McGraw-Hill showcases institutions that are improving educational equity by applying new learning methods and tools that adapt to individual student needs.

September 12, 2019

Tags: Announcement, Equity, Press Release

NEW YORK (September 12, 2019) -- A new white paper by McGraw-Hill, “The Equity Equation,” explores the potential of new teaching methods and adaptive learning technology to help drive more sustainable, equitable outcomes for millions of U.S. college students.

In the paper, McGraw-Hill explores the potential of today’s best adaptive learning systems, which are grounded in learning science, to support students from all backgrounds and achievement levels. And it takes a close look at institutions that are effectively using adaptive learning technology to increase educational equity including Columbus State Community College, The College of Health Care Professions and Arizona State University (ASU). “The Equity Equation” white paper is available for free at http://info.mheducation.com/closing-the-equity-gap-2019.html.

The issue of educational equity is top-of-mind for many colleges and universities as they aim to serve more learners and help them realize the financial and personal benefits of a college degree. It also is a growing priority among legislators, policymakers and foundations hoping to expand and scale programs that work for all students and help them succeed.

Unfortunately, serious gaps persist among certain student groups, according to National Student Clearinghouse data, including first-generation students, low-income students and students of color. A recent McGraw-Hill survey of over 3,000 students found that underserved students feel disproportionately unprepared for most aspects of the college experience, including transitioning to college, academics, school/life balance and the financial complexities of paying for an education.

“Improving educational equity requires an understanding of the unique challenges faced by students, and that means putting systems and support structures in place to ensure that every learner has an equal chance to succeed,” said Nana Banerjee, President & CEO of McGraw-Hill.

Adrian’s Story captures how Triton College’s innovative approach to gateway math courses, coupled with McGraw-Hill’s adaptive technology, helped unlock this young man’s talent for math and change the trajectory of his life.

“The power of technology and data has transformed almost every area of human life,” said Ryan S. Baker, Associate Professor, Graduate School of Education, University of Pennsylvania, and a member of McGraw-Hill’s Learning Science Advisory Board. “We’re just starting to see its enormous potential in education to help all students succeed and erase gaps in opportunity. Now is the time for us to join together across all aspects of higher education to drive this systemic and historic change.”

According to ASU’s Director of Adaptive Learning Initiatives Dale Johnson, there are more than 50 major institutions across the country leading the way in the use of adaptive learning and new teaching methods.

“We expect that we are at a tipping point where the majority of institutions will now implement adaptive learning over the next five years,” Johnson said. “Higher education will become one of mass personalization. Equity isn’t just important to ASU, it is important to our society.”

McGraw-Hill has long been a leading provider of learning science-based adaptive learning technology in higher education. Its affordable, market-leading solutions McGraw-Hill Connect® and ALEKS® serve millions of students across the country, helping them improve learning outcomes.

McGraw Hill
McGraw Hill is a leading global education company that partners with millions of educators, learners and professionals around the world. Recognizing their diverse needs, we build trusted content, flexible tools and powerful digital platforms to help them achieve success on their own terms. Through our commitment to equity, accessibility and inclusion, we foster a culture of belonging that respects and reflects the diversity of the communities, learners and educators we serve. McGraw Hill has over 40 offices across North America, Asia, Australia, Europe, the Middle East and South America, and makes its learning solutions for PreK–12, higher education, professionals and others available in more than 80 languages. Visit us at mheducation.com or find us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, or Twitter.

Contact
Tyler Reed
McGraw Hill
(914) 512-4853
tyler.reed@mheducation.com