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Pearson plc, headquartered in London, England, is a British multinational publishing and education company. Founded in the 1840s, Pearson initially started as a construction business but pivoted to publishing in the 1920s. Today, it stands as the world’s largest education company, serving customers in nearly 200 countries with digital content, assessments, qualifications, and data.
Historically known for its extensive involvement in the publishing industry, Pearson has strategically divested non-core assets such as the Financial Times, The Economist, and Penguin Random House to focus on education and testing services. The company’s primary activities include higher education, clinical assessments, professional certification, and testing services.
In recent developments, Pearson has introduced advanced AI study tools across its Pearson+ eTextbooks. These tools, which generate explanations, summaries, and practice questions, have been well-received by students and educators alike. Over 40 titles in subjects such as math, science, business, and nursing are set to feature these tools by the fall of 2024, further enhancing the learning experience.
Moreover, Pearson has expanded into the esports education sector through a continued partnership with British Esports. This collaboration has led to the launch of higher-tier BTEC qualifications in Esports, providing clear progression pathways into the lucrative esports industry for students globally.
Pearson is also making significant strides in workforce assessment solutions through its subsidiary, PDRI. At the Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology (SIOP) Annual Conference, PDRI's CEO, Dr. Elaine Pulakos, will co-lead workshops and present on panel discussions, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based assessment solutions in talent management.
In the realm of certification, Pearson VUE has partnered with SAE International to deliver the Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) Technician Certification. This initiative aims to address the shortage of qualified EV technicians and supports the growing EV infrastructure globally.
With a strong commitment to innovation and quality education, Pearson continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of learning and professional certification. For more information, visit Pearson plc.
Pearson (PSON.L) released new insights showing increased AI adoption in higher education. Students using Pearson's AI tools are 4x more likely to engage in active studying, with an 11-percentage-point increase in students reporting better grades and study efficiency. Usage data reveals that students using AI-generated flashcards were nearly 3x more likely to return and practice.
The analysis shows 38% of student inputs demonstrate higher cognitive complexity, while 25% involved critical thinking skills. AI sessions in MyLab and Mastering increased 95% from fall 2023 to 2024. Faculty adoption is also growing, with 77% of surveyed educators envisioning AI integration in teaching methods, particularly for generating examples, providing tutoring services, and developing instructional content.
Pearson reported positive Q3 2024 performance with 5% underlying sales growth, resulting in 3% growth for the nine-month period. All divisions delivered growth in Q3, including Higher Education up 4%, Assessment & Qualifications up 6%, Virtual Learning up 4%, English Language Learning up 2%, and Workforce Skills up 6%. The company signed a new multi-year enterprise deal with ServiceNow and expanded partnership with Degreed. AI initiatives showed progress with double-digit year-over-year billings growth in Higher Education products featuring AI study tools. The company completed its £500m share buyback, issued a £350m Educational Bond, and maintains a strong financial position with Moody's upgrading its rating to Baa2.
Pearson's Skills Map U.S. predicts 1.9 million new jobs will be created through 2028, despite automation, AI, and demographic shifts reshaping the job market. The report, based on an analysis of 85 million U.S. job ads, emphasizes that all jobs are becoming 'tech jobs' as businesses integrate advanced technologies.
Key findings include:
- Technology expertise will be in high demand across all sectors
- Human skills remain essential
- Upskilling and reskilling will be critical
The report focuses on the 'Three A's' - automation, AI, and an aging population - as key drivers of change. It highlights the growing importance of blending technical expertise with industry-specific skills and the need for businesses to rethink workforce strategies.
Pearson has launched a Generative AI Foundations certification to address the growing demand for AI skills across industries. The program, developed by Certiport, a Pearson VUE business, aims to equip professionals and students, including high schoolers, with essential skills for working with generative AI technologies. The certification is part of Certiport's Critical Career Skills portfolio and was created in partnership with Mindstone, a global leader in AI training.
The certification will be available from October 1 through Mindhub and Certiport, with flexible purchasing options. It will validate proficiency in key areas such as understanding generative AI methods and models, mastering prompt engineering basics, and grasping the societal impact of AI. According to the 2024 Work Trend Index Annual Report, 66% of business leaders would not hire candidates lacking AI skills, highlighting the importance of such certifications in the current job market.
Pearson's Connections Academy has expanded its college and early career program to over 20 schools, now covering more than half of its supported schools in the US. This expansion provides tens of thousands of middle and high school students with opportunities to earn college credits and industry certifications. The program's tri-credit approach offers high school credit, industry-recognized micro-credentials, and eligibility for college credit towards US bachelor's degree programs.
The initiative has doubled career partnerships, increasing students' exposure to industry experiences. New partnerships include Future Business Leaders of America, The Home Depot, HOSA-Future Health Professionals, and the SEMI Foundation. The program also provides access to career assessments, post-secondary planning, career coaching, and engagement with professionals in STEM, film, and creative careers.
Pearson's GED Testing Service announces the first National GED Day on September 16, 2024, celebrating GED achievements and non-traditional educational pathways. This initiative aims to recognize GED learners, educators, and supporters, highlighting the importance of adult education in opening doors to higher education and career prospects.
With over 40 million adults lacking a high school diploma, GED Testing Service serves 700,000 learners annually. The day encourages involvement through social media engagement, sharing personal journeys, and community college outreach. Since 1942, the GED test has helped over 21 million graduates access better jobs and college programs, emphasizing its role in promoting lifelong learning and equal opportunities for all.
Pearson (FTSE: PSON.L) has launched new AI-powered higher education tools to enhance personalized learning for college students. Available through Pearson+ Channels, these tools include:
1. Personalized study and exam prep: Generates custom learning plans based on course syllabi.
2. Interactive video learning: Allows students to ask questions during video lessons.
3. Expanded AI study tools: Provides problem-solving assistance and unique content.
These features complement Pearson's existing AI tools used by over 2 million students at 1,000+ institutions. The company aims to improve student performance and create a more engaging experience for both students and faculty through responsible AI application.
Pearson (FTSE: PSON.L) has announced new generative AI-powered tools to enhance teaching and learning across various age levels. Key innovations include:
1. Expanded reach of AI study tools to c.80 more titles, including international editions.
2. New AI features in Pearson+ Channels: syllabus upload for personalized learning, AI tutor for problem-solving, and AI tutor for video content.
3. AI tool for instructors to efficiently build assignments in 25 US titles.
4. Adaptation of AI tools for high school curriculum in Connections Academy.
5. Development of an AI teaching assistant for English language teachers.
These tools aim to provide a richer, more engaging experience for students and increase educator efficiency. Pearson's AI application is backed by learning scientists, vetted by experts, and based on trusted content.
Pearson reported solid H1 2024 financial performance, with underlying Group sales growth of 2% excluding OPM and Strategic Review businesses. Adjusted operating profit grew 4% to £250m on an underlying basis. Free cash flow improved significantly to £27m, up £77m year-over-year. The company remains on track to meet FY2024 expectations and reiterates guidance through 2025.
Key highlights include:
- Assessment & Qualifications sales grew 2%
- Higher Education sales declined 2%, in line with phasing guidance
- English Language Learning sales increased 11%
- Workforce Skills sales grew 6%
Beyond 2025, Pearson expects to deliver mid-single digit underlying sales CAGR and sustained margin improvement averaging 40 basis points annually. The company sees growth opportunities in early careers and enterprise skilling, driven by demographic shifts and AI advancements.
Pearson (FTSE: PSON.L) has appointed Ginny Cartwright Ziegler as its new Chief Marketing Officer, effective July 29, 2024. Ziegler, with over 30 years of marketing leadership experience, will report to CEO Omar Abbosh and lead the company's marketing, brand, and communications efforts. She succeeds Lynne Frank, who is stepping down from her dual role.
Ziegler joins Pearson from Accenture, where she was CMO for North America, driving double-digit growth over four years. Her focus at Pearson will be on innovating marketing strategies, incorporating AI and advanced technologies into customer journeys, and advancing Pearson's brand position. The appointment aligns with Pearson's increased focus on AI and enterprise learning efforts.
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