Welcome to our dedicated page for Pearson news (Ticker: PSO), a resource for investors and traders seeking the latest updates and insights on Pearson stock.
Pearson plc reports news across its education, assessment, and workforce-skills businesses as a UK-listed learning company with ADRs trading under PSO. Recurring updates cover assessment and qualification testing, higher education, virtual learning, English language learning, professional certifications, and enterprise upskilling products.
Company announcements also describe AI-powered learning tools such as Communication Coach, adaptive practice technology, Pearson Professional Assessments, Credly digital credentialing, Faethm workforce planning, and the Global Scale of English. Pearson news frequently includes trading updates, preliminary results, product launches, strategic technology partnerships, student and educator research, contract wins, and capital actions.
Pearson (PSO) has unveiled a new generative AI-powered tool for instructors, set to launch in August 2024 within its MyLab and Mastering platforms. This tool aims to help educators efficiently create personalized assignments for students, addressing the gap in AI understanding among faculty. Recent surveys indicate that many instructors lack confidence in incorporating AI into their teaching, while students are increasingly using AI for studying.
The AI tool is expected to save US educators nearly 3 million hours a week by 2026, allowing more time for direct student interaction. It will be available for the Fall 2024 semester in 25 business, math, science, and nursing titles in the US. Pearson is also expanding its student-focused AI study tools across 50 titles, reflecting its commitment to responsible AI application in education.
Pearson has appointed Dave Treat as its new Chief Technology Officer (CTO), effective immediately. Dave will report directly to CEO Omar Abbosh and will collaborate closely with the Chief Product and Chief Information Officers to drive technological innovation and architecture at Pearson.
Dave joins Pearson with 27 years of expertise in technology and strategic business transformation, having held senior roles at Accenture, Deloitte, and UBS Investment Bank. At Accenture, he led the Innovation Incubation Group and other key technology initiatives.
CEO Omar Abbosh highlighted Dave's expertise in AI and innovation, viewing his appointment as critical for Pearson's future technology efforts. Dave's background in education and his extensive experience in emerging technologies such as Generative AI, Blockchain, and Quantum Computing position him well to advance Pearson's mission in the learning space.
Dave will be based in Connecticut, USA.
According to Pearson's 2024 School Report, at least 1.5 million children in England struggle to engage in learning weekly. The report, based on feedback from over 12,000 teachers, students, and education experts, reveals a significant disengagement issue, especially in secondary schools. While 68% of students enjoy school, 73% struggle with lessons. Key challenges include lack of understanding, not feeling clever enough, and health issues. Teachers suggest solutions like hiring additional staff, integrating digital tools, and making curriculum content relevant to students' lives. These efforts are important in addressing the growing concern of pupil disengagement.
Pearson reports significant growth in the adoption of its generative AI study tools, integrated into Mastering and Pearson+ eTextbooks. Over 70,000 students from 1,000 institutions have interacted with the tools more than 2 million times. These AI tools help students understand complex topics, leading to increased engagement and efficiency in their study sessions.
According to a survey by Pearson and Morning Consult, 51% of students claimed AI tools improved their grades, and 56% found them made studying more efficient. Pearson plans to expand these tools to 50 MyLab and Mastering titles, aiming to reach millions of students by Fall 2024.
Pearson's Connections Academy has partnered with SEMI Foundation to provide high school students, families, and educators with unique experiences in the semiconductor industry. This collaboration aims to offer internships, apprenticeships, scholarships, and digital badging. The semiconductor industry, projected to grow by 80% to 460,000 workers by 2030, is a critical sector supported by a $350 billion investment over 20 years from the CHIPS and Science Act. Pearson aims to address the talent gap by engaging early talent through this partnership. Connections Academy's college and career readiness programs launched in spring 2023 will also benefit from this initiative.
PDRI by Pearson (FTSE: PSON.L) has been awarded the Top Workplaces 2024 honor by the Washington Post, based on employee feedback collected through a survey by Energage This survey measures themes such as feeling respected, supported, and empowered. PDRI's commitment to industrial and organizational psychology, which it applies to both clients and its own workforce, has been validated by this award. CEO Elaine Pulakos highlighted the importance of a great team and an environment that fosters growth and collaboration as keys to their success.
SAE International has partnered with Pearson VUE to deliver the new Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) Technician Certification, starting May 2024. This certification aims to address the shortage of qualified EV technicians globally. The program is tailored for individuals transitioning into green technology or validating existing expertise. Candidates must meet eligibility requirements and pass a rigorous exam developed by SAE ITC Probitas Authentication. The certification will initially launch in the US and expand internationally. Pearson VUE will utilize its global test centers and online-proctoring platform to facilitate the exams.
New research from Pearson, a leading learning company, indicates that Generative AI could save UK workers 19 million hours per week by 2026. The report, part of Pearson’s Skills Outlook series titled 'Reclaim the Clock: How Generative AI Can Power People at Work', highlights that tasks such as maintaining records, data collection, and preparing reports could be significantly streamlined by AI. The study analyzed the impact across five countries: Australia, Brazil, India, UK, and the US, identifying the top 10 tasks that would benefit most from AI. The findings suggest that AI can free up time for more strategic, human-centric work and improve work-life balance.
Pearson's latest research, part of their Skills Outlook series, reveals that Generative AI could help US workers save 78 million hours per week by 2026. The study, titled 'Reclaim the Clock: How Generative AI Can Power People at Work', identifies the top 10 job tasks where AI can save the most time, such as maintaining health records and developing educational programs. The research covers five countries: Australia, Brazil, India, UK, and US. Pearson's workforce planning platform highlights that AI can effectively support tasks like data collection and maintaining records. By augmenting routine tasks with AI, companies can allow employees to focus on high-value activities like strategic thinking and collaboration. The study emphasizes the need for employers to integrate AI responsibly and provide adequate training and support for employees.
Pearson announced the integration of AI study tools into its Nursing: A Concept-Based Approach to Learning series, aiming to improve nursing education and address workforce shortages. These tools provide personalized support, including guided help with homework, summaries, and practice problems. The integration is set to be available by Fall 2024 in Pearson+ eTextbook and MyLab Nursing course. This move addresses the significant need for more nurses and nurse educators as highlighted by the National Academy of Medicine. A recent survey found 75% of students found the AI tools helpful. Pearson plans further AI integration across various subjects by August 2024.