Will 40% of U.S. colleges close? Michael Horn discusses the future of education

In this wide-ranging discussion with the Institute for Business in Global Society, Michael Horn, Harvard Graduate School of Education lecturer and co-founder of the Clayton Christensen Institute, explores how technological disruption, demographic changes, and evolving workforce needs are fundamentally reshaping education at all levels.

Key takeaways:
– 15% of U.S. colleges have already closed or merged, with predictions suggesting up to 40% could close in the next 5-6 years due to demographic shifts and changing demand
– While elite institutions will remain stable, AI will accelerate the need for continuous learning and experiential education
– Traditional degrees are losing relevance as companies drop requirements and alternatives like apprenticeships gain traction
– Post-COVID, micro-schools and personalized learning models are emerging as disruptive alternatives to traditional education
– Lifelong learning will become essential, with short-burst programs and work-based experiences replacing traditional educational models

Video highlights:
0:00 - Introduction: Technology's role in education
4:59 - Higher education crisis
7:37 - The AI revolution in education
10:18 - Lifelong learning and skills evolution
13:08 - Alternative education pathways
15:37 - Changing value of college degrees
18:17- K-12 innovation post-COVID
21:38 - Future leadership skills