Exploring underlying factors for variations in digital upskilling

• Published in: Industry & higher education 2024-12, Vol.38 (6), p.515-533
• Main Authors: McCrowre, Rodney, Adivar, Burcu
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Ability; Critical thinking; Demography; Policy making; Race; Secondary schools; Skill development; Skills; Statistical analysis; Thinking skills; Transformation
• ISSN: 0950-4222; 2043-6858
• DOI: 10.1177/09504222241249078

This study aims to analyse the impact of demographic and educational factors on in digital upskilling. We address the relationship between digital skills, critical thinking skills and the student learning experience in courses with embedded upskilling programs. Statistical analysis and exploratory research are used to analyse the data collected by the digital fitness app developed by a global company leading digital talent transformation. Our research identified the following demographic indicators that have influenced individuals’ digital upskilling: Gender, Race, Residency, Pell-eligibility, Age, in addition to six academic indicators including department, major, class level, first-time freshman, High School GPA and ACT score. Discussion of findings and future research directions would lead to novel research articles focusing on longitudinal studies to assess digital skills. Also, this study shows the need for a new assessment tool to expand the scope and the sample size of the study. This article provides a valuable guidance for policy makers, higher-education institutions, educators, students, and employers, who are looking for digital talent or skill sets needed for digital transformation. The main contribution lays in data collection and analysis. This is the first study using a globally accepted digital talent assessment tool to collect data at a minority serving institution.