Decoder with Nilay Patel Recode Decode: Pearson CEO John Fallon
Aug 2, 2019
John Fallon, CEO of Pearson and leader in educational publishing, discusses the seismic shift from print to digital textbooks. He dives into Pearson's strategies to leverage AI for grading and enhancing personalized learning, and why traditional $300 textbooks are becoming obsolete. Fallon also touches on the future role of teachers amidst these changes and how partnerships with tech giants like Amazon and Microsoft are shaping education. The conversation wraps up with thoughts on the evolving skills needed for today's job market.
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Episode notes
Interview Location and Topic
- Kara Swisher interviews John Fallon in London about Pearson's shift to digital.
- Fallon discusses the transition from print to digital textbooks.
Fallon's Background and Pearson's Early Digital Efforts
- John Fallon discusses his background, starting in politics before joining Pearson in 1997.
- He recounts Pearson's history as a conglomerate and its initial foray into digital during the dot-com boom.
Publishing Industry's Slow Digital Adoption
- The publishing industry's slow embrace of the internet delayed widespread digital textbook adoption.
- Initial attempts to push technology faced resistance from customers not yet ready for change.
