Current Projects
Our projects explore how to scale experiential learning pathways that equitably serve low-income and lifelong learners. We are conducting research on the design, effectiveness, and long-term impact of work-integrated learning, digital credentialing, and skills-based education models. Our team is also piloting innovative tools and approaches—such as AI-supported learning assessments, cross-sector partnerships, and institutional change strategies—to better align education with real-world opportunity. Across all projects, we prioritize use-inspired research and experimentation to inform institutional innovation and policy design.
Designing and Implementing Work-based Learning
This executive summary (“A Call to Action for CHROs”) provides an analysis of the latest developments and best practices in the work-based learning field, with particular attention to the corporate case for improving, scaling, resourcing, and measuring the success of...
Online Education in 2019: A Synthesis of the Data
This report reviews and synthesizes the latest research to provide a high-level overview of the current state of the online education market – including its size and character; the characteristics of online students; what is known about the quality of online...
Educational Credentials Come of Age: A Survey on the Use and Value of Educational Credentials in Hiring
This unique national research survey of 750 HR leaders focuses on the future of educational credentials and their value and use in the workplace. The study provides new insights on the changing value of educational credentials in hiring; the perception of online- and...
EQUIP
In 2016, Northeastern University was one of only eight universities chosen for the U.S. Department of Education’s Educational Quality through Innovative Partnerships (EQUIP) experimental sites initiative, which aims to provide more Americans with the skills required...
Innovation Imperative Series
Northeastern University’s Innovation Imperative series has provided a real-time window into Americans’ attitudes on key issues affecting higher education and the global economy. Whether examining the emerging views of Generation Z or determining the in-demand skills...