Predictions for Catholic Education

Catholic education is transforming—and fast. Rob Birdsell, President of Catholic Virtual, shares key trends like hybrid learning, digital innovation, and flexible models that are reshaping how Catholic schools serve families today.

by Rob Birdsell, President of Catholic Virtual

June 2022

The transformation of Catholic education has accelerated over the past few years.

Recently, Catholic schools have served students in ways other schools could not. They demonstrated creativity and adaptability in the face of Covid-19. The way we deliver Catholic education is fundamentally changing as schools work out how to meet the flexible and digital-learning experiences many students and families now desire.

Looking forward, making forecasts is a dicey exercise, but here are a few predictions for the months (and years) ahead:

1. The growth of hybrid education models, where students learn through both in-person and online instruction, will continue. Schools will utilize online options to offer specialized courses, access world class programs, and fill teacher gaps.
2. With the increasing demand for online courses and programs, investment in course development and improving the student online experience will increase. Schools have moved way beyond “zooming” teachers from classrooms into homes. New data on how students learn in hybrid settings, and options for virtual faith formation, will drive enhancements in online programs and increase efficiency in school operations.
3. Families will continue to want and expect flexibility in scheduling, course availability, and personalized learning, including at-home options. Small schools, including Catholic ones, are well positioned to adapt to parents’ changing expectations.

These are our thoughts, but we invite you to use the comments section to share with us your predictions for education.

At Catholic Virtual, we’re dedicated to partnering with Catholic schools across the globe to enhance the education and formation of students in a rapidly changing world.