Higher Education
The skills gap has emerged as a growing challenge in both education and the workforce, creating a disconnect between the capabilities of learners and the demands of today’s industries. The good news is that hands-on learning and skills-based assessments can significantly narrow this gap, equipping learners with the competencies needed to thrive in their careers.
The skills gap is more than just a buzzword—it’s a pressing concern for industries worldwide. Recent studies estimate the global skills gap costs trillions annually, with U.S. GDP potentially losing $1.2 trillion each year by 2030 if not addressed. As job roles and technologies evolve, many workers are struggling to keep up with the required skills. In fact, 3 in 4 employers say they have a hard time finding employees with the skills they need, and this number is only expected to grow as job skill requirements continue to evolve.
In higher education, particularly in fields such as healthcare, teaching, and trades, the gap is even more apparent. Many programs still focus heavily on theoretical knowledge, leaving graduates underprepared for the hands-on demands of their industries. This creates a mismatch between what learners are taught and what employers need—leading to unfilled positions and a lack of career-ready graduates.
Hands-on learning goes beyond theoretical understanding, emphasizing the practical application of skills in real-world scenarios. Research shows that learning by doing enhances retention, expands competencies, and builds confidence in learners. Hands-on learning is most effective when students have opportunities to practice skills, reflect on their capabilities and receive meaningful feedback to help them improve. This form of learning also provides a positive feedback loop—when learners receive feedback on their hands-on experiences, they not only correct mistakes but gain the confidence needed to apply these skills professionally.
To effectively close the skills gap, educational programs must offer more opportunities for hands-on training. Apprenticeships, internships, and clinical placements are some of the best ways to provide students with real-world experience. These experiences allow learners to put theory into practice and develop the competencies employers seek. However, assessing these skills can be challenging, especially at scale.
This is where GoReact comes in. Using the power of video, GoReact makes it easier for instructors to assess student performance in real-world settings, whether through presentations, clinical simulations, or hands-on tasks. GoReact facilitates skills-based learning by enabling students more opportunities to practice and self-reflect, and then allows instructors and peers to review the skill practice and provide detailed, time-stamped feedback .
GoReact goes beyond simplifying feedback by offering a comprehensive skill assessment solution. This makes it easy to pinpoint specific areas for improvement, track progress over time, and ensure students are meeting the competencies required for their careers.
The skills gap may seem daunting, but with the right strategies, we can close it. Hands-on learning and skill assessments are vital to ensuring that students graduate with the competencies needed to thrive in their chosen careers. With GoReact’s cutting-edge tools, educators can provide meaningful, skills-based assessments that drive talent development and enhance learning retention.
By embracing this approach, we can equip students with the skills they need for the evolving job market and help close the gap between education and employment.
Ready to get started? Get our Ultimate Guide to Skills Assessment in the AI Era to learn more about incorporating hands-on training and assessments into your program.