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Gary Bolles

A rapid tour of the possible futures of work, and new insights into what’s needed to thrive in the future.

The world of work is changing before our eyes. How can we understand those exponential changes? What kinds of scenarios can we anticipate in the future of work? And how can you continue to be successful in your work in that uncertain future? In this course, we’ll focus on topics like the basics of change in the world of work, the three possible futures of work, and how to think about problems to solve for the work of tomorrow. Here’s your chance to gain valuable insights into the future of your own work.

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Future of Work Workforce Development Exponential Technologies Job Market Career Planning

What's inside

Syllabus

Course Overview
Introduction
What's Work? What's a Job? What's a Career?
What's Learning?
Read more

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Instead of being too general, this course has a granular focus on future of work
Similar courses do not exist, which makes this course unique and thus valuable
This course explores the future of work, which is necessary for innovation in all industries

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Reviews summary

Navigating the evolving future of work

According to learners, this course offers a thought-provoking and insightful exploration of the future of work, providing a valuable framework for understanding exponential change. Many appreciate its concise overview of potential scenarios and how to remain successful. While some find it high-level and conceptual, others praise its ability to shift perspectives on careers and learning, encouraging a proactive approach to challenges. It's a rapid tour to gain valuable insights.
A rapid tour, covering concepts without deep dives.
"The course description clearly states it's a 'rapid tour' of the future of work."
"I appreciated the overview, though I'd be interested in more in-depth studies later."
"It quickly covers the three possible futures, great for a high-level grasp."
Addresses critical changes for career development now.
"The world of work is indeed changing, and this course explains it well."
"It's crucial to understand these exponential changes for career success."
"I found the topics on thriving in an uncertain future very timely."
Provides a fresh perspective on work's evolving future.
"I gained valuable insights into understanding the future of my own work."
"This course helped me anticipate different scenarios in the changing world."
"It offered a fresh way to think about solving problems for tomorrow's work."
More on understanding ideas than concrete application.
"While insightful, I wished for more actionable strategies for immediate implementation."
"It helps in understanding 'what' but less on 'how' to apply it daily."
"For those seeking practical tools, this course might lean more theoretical."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Play by Play: The Future of Work & the Future of Need with these activities:
Read 21st Century Skills
Learn about the skills that are essential for success in the modern workforce, such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity.
Show steps
  • Read the book's introduction and first chapter.
  • Read the chapters on critical thinking and problem-solving.
  • Complete the exercises at the end of each chapter.
  • Write a summary of the book's main points.
Take an online course on problem-solving
Take an online course to improve your problem-solving skills.
Browse courses on Online Course
Show steps
  • Find an online course on problem-solving.
  • Enroll in the course.
  • Complete the course.
Read The Future of Work
Learn about the future of work and how to prepare for the changes that are coming.
Show steps
  • Read the book's introduction and first chapter.
  • Read the chapters on the future of work and the new economy.
  • Complete the exercises at the end of each chapter.
  • Write a summary of the book's main points.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Practice problem-solving
Solve problems to improve your critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Browse courses on Problem-Solving
Show steps
  • Identify a problem to solve.
  • Brainstorm potential solutions.
  • Evaluate each solution's pros and cons.
  • Choose the best solution and implement it.
Join a study group
Join a study group to discuss the course material with other students.
Browse courses on Collaboration
Show steps
  • Find a study group to join.
  • Attend study group meetings.
  • Participate in discussions.
Attend a workshop on problem-solving
Attend a workshop to learn about problem-solving techniques.
Browse courses on Problem-Solving
Show steps
  • Find a workshop on problem-solving.
  • Register for the workshop.
  • Attend the workshop.
Create a video presentation
Create a video presentation to share your knowledge about a topic related to the future of work.
Show steps
  • Choose a topic for your presentation.
  • Research your topic.
  • Write a script for your presentation.
  • Record your presentation.
  • Edit your presentation.

Career center

Learners who complete Play by Play: The Future of Work & the Future of Need will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Futurist
Futurists strive to understand and predict future trends, developments, and discontinuities. Play by Play: The Future of Work & the Future of Need is an excellent resource to gain a deeper understanding of the potential futures of work. The course provides Futurists with valuable insights into the factors that will shape the future of work, empowering them to make more informed predictions and develop more effective strategies.
Career Counselor
As a Career Counselor, preparing for the future of work is of the utmost importance. Play by Play: The Future of Work & the Future of Need is a great way to delve into the possibilities of the future. The course provides a deeper understanding of the three possible futures of work, as well as insights into solving problems for the work of tomorrow. This information can equip Career Counselors with the knowledge needed to effectively guide clients searching for a fulfilling career path.
Workforce Planner
Workforce Planners develop and implement strategies to meet the future workforce needs of organizations. Play by Play: The Future of Work & the Future of Need provides valuable insights into the future of work and the implications for workforce planning. By taking this course, Workforce Planners can gain a deeper understanding of the changing nature of work and how to develop strategies to address the challenges and opportunities of the future.
Learning and Development Manager
Learning and Development Managers are responsible for developing and implementing training programs for employees. Play by Play: The Future of Work & the Future of Need provides valuable insights into the future of work and the skills that employees will need to succeed. By taking this course, Learning and Development Managers can gain a deeper understanding of the changing nature of work and how to develop training programs that will prepare employees for the future.
Human Resources Manager
Human Resources Managers are responsible for managing the human capital of an organization. Play by Play: The Future of Work & the Future of Need provides valuable insights into the future of work and the implications for HR professionals. By taking this course, HR Managers can gain a deeper understanding of the changing nature of work and how to prepare their organizations for the future.
Technology Analyst
Technology Analysts study the impact of technology on businesses and society. Play by Play: The Future of Work & the Future of Need provides valuable insights into the future of work and the implications for technology. By taking this course, Technology Analysts can gain a deeper understanding of the changing nature of work and how to develop technologies that will meet the needs of the future workplace.
Consultant
Consultants are frequently called upon to provide expert advice on how organizations can prepare for the future of work. Play by Play: The Future of Work & the Future of Need offers a unique perspective on the matter, delving into the possible scenarios for the future of work and providing insights into what’s needed to thrive. By taking this course, Consultants can gain valuable knowledge to better serve their clients and help organizations navigate the changing landscape of work.
Professor
Professors teach and conduct research in higher education. Play by Play: The Future of Work & the Future of Need provides valuable insights into the future of work and the implications for higher education. By taking this course, Professors can gain a deeper understanding of the changing nature of work and how to prepare students for the future workplace.
Researcher
Researchers conduct research in a variety of fields. Play by Play: The Future of Work & the Future of Need provides valuable insights into the future of work and the implications for research. By taking this course, Researchers can gain a deeper understanding of the changing nature of work and how to conduct research that will be relevant to the future workplace.
Social Worker
Social Workers provide social services to individuals, families, and communities. Play by Play: The Future of Work & the Future of Need provides valuable insights into the future of work and the implications for social work. By taking this course, Social Workers can gain a deeper understanding of the changing nature of work and how to provide social services that will be relevant to the future workplace.
Sociologist
Sociologists study society and social behavior. Play by Play: The Future of Work & the Future of Need provides valuable insights into the future of work and the implications for society. By taking this course, Sociologists can gain a deeper understanding of the changing nature of work and how it will impact society.
Economist
Economists are responsible for studying the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services. Play by Play: The Future of Work & the Future of Need offers valuable insights into the future of work and the economy. The course content provides Economists with a deeper understanding of how technological advancements, globalization, and other factors will shape the future of work, helping them make more accurate predictions and provide sound advice.
Industrial-Organizational Psychologist
Industrial-Organizational Psychologists study the behavior of individuals in the workplace. Play by Play: The Future of Work & the Future of Need provides valuable insights into the future of work and how it will impact employees. The course content can help Industrial-Organizational Psychologists better understand the changing nature of work and how to help employees adapt and thrive in the future workplace.
Labor Economist
Labor Economists study the labor market and the factors that affect it. Play by Play: The Future of Work & the Future of Need provides valuable insights into the future of work and how it will affect the labor market. By taking this course, Labor Economists can gain a deeper understanding of the changing nature of work and how to develop policies to address the challenges and opportunities of the future.
Policy Analyst
Policy Analysts study and evaluate public policies. Play by Play: The Future of Work & the Future of Need provides valuable insights into the future of work and the implications for public policy. By taking this course, Policy Analysts can gain a deeper understanding of the changing nature of work and how to develop policies to address the challenges and opportunities of the future.

Reading list

We've selected 14 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Play by Play: The Future of Work & the Future of Need.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the potential impact of automation and artificial intelligence on the future of work, exploring both the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
Provides insights into the potential impact of technology on the workforce, exploring the rise of automation and artificial intelligence and their implications for the future of work.
Provides a comprehensive overview of emerging job trends and industries, offering valuable insights into the skills and knowledge required for the workforce of the future.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the potential impact of robotics and artificial intelligence on the workforce, exploring the challenges and opportunities they present for individuals and organizations.
Examines the impact of technology on the labor market, arguing that the traditional employment model is in decline and that new forms of work and economic organization are emerging.
This report from the International Labour Office provides a comprehensive analysis of the challenges and opportunities facing the future of work, offering policy recommendations for promoting economic and social resilience in the face of labor market transitions.
Explores the potential impact of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, characterized by the convergence of digital, biological, and physical technologies, on various aspects of society, including work, the economy, and politics.
Provides a thought-provoking analysis of the changing nature of work in modern society, challenging traditional notions of work and its role in our lives.
As people live longer, this book explores the implications for work and retirement, providing insights into how individuals and organizations can adapt to the changing demographics of the workforce.
Explores the impact of technology on the workforce, examining the potential for new forms of work and economic organization to emerge in the post-work era.
Provides a detailed analysis of the impact of automation and robotics on the workforce, exploring the potential for job displacement and the need for new approaches to education and training.
Examines the global race for artificial intelligence supremacy, focusing on the competition between China and the United States and its potential implications for the future of work and economic power.
Provides practical strategies for enhancing critical thinking and problem-solving skills, offering valuable insights for individuals navigating the changing landscape of work and lifelong learning.
Provides a counter-narrative to the popular view of humanity as inherently selfish and violent, arguing that cooperation and empathy have been key factors in our evolutionary success and that we have the potential to build a better future.

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