How Do We Build Unbounded, Co-Created Pathways for Every Learner? | Jean-Claude Brizard

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark talks with Jean-Claude Brizard, CEO of Digital Promise, about the launch of the Center for Learner Pathway Innovations and what it will take to build New Pathways that are truly "unbounded." They dig into the barriers that keep learners from seeing and accessing opportunity (visibility, value, and recognition gaps), why pathways must be co-created with learners and communities, and how credentialing and learner records can better capture skills and verified experiences—from work-based learning to out-of-school learning. The conversation also highlights regional pathway design (including an Alabama cybersecurity example), lessons from P-TECH, and how emerging technologies like AI can support powerful learning grounded in agency, purpose, curiosity, and connection.

• (00:00) Introduction
• (2:30) Barriers & Unbounded Pathways
• (5:39) Co-Creation & Credentialing
• (13:58) Cybersecurity Pathway & Alabama
• (16:07) Powerful Learning & Emerging Technology

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• Watch the full video here
• TNTP
• Jean-Claude Brizard
• Digital Promise