Course Description

"Shaping Work of the Future" is an enlightening and forward-thinking course offered by MITx that delves into the critical intersection of technology, work, and society. This introductory-level course is designed to equip students with the knowledge and tools necessary to understand and actively shape the future of work in an era of rapid technological advancement and globalization.

What Students Will Learn

• A comprehensive historical perspective on work and employment policies in the United States and globally
• The evolving roles of firms, employees, and public policy in shaping the modern labor market
• An in-depth analysis of the current labor market, including job types, required skills, and emerging trends in work organization
• The impact of emerging technologies on human work and the skills needed for future success
• Strategies for shaping technological innovation to complement and augment human potential
• The role of government and civic institutions in ensuring equality of opportunity, social inclusion, and shared prosperity
• Practical resources and tools for personal career planning in the workplaces of the future

Prerequisites

There are no specific prerequisites for this course, making it accessible to anyone interested in the future of work and its societal implications.

Course Coverage

• The challenges and opportunities presented by globalization and technological change
• Historical context of work and employment, and its relevance to current issues
• The impact of technological advancements across industries
• The transformation of human work and required skills due to emerging technologies
• Strategies for shaping technology to complement rather than replace human work
• Employer expectations in the modern workplace
• The importance of collaboration between employers, workers, governments, and educators
• Development of a new social contract of work and personal action plans

Who This Course Is For

• Students interested in the future of work and career planning
• Professionals seeking to understand and adapt to changing workplace dynamics
• Policymakers and civic leaders concerned with labor market trends and societal impacts
• Anyone interested in the intersection of technology, work, and society

Real-World Applications

The knowledge and skills gained from this course will enable learners to:

1. Make informed decisions about their own career paths in light of technological advancements
2. Contribute to workplace discussions and initiatives related to technological integration and skill development
3. Engage in informed dialogue about labor market policies and their societal impacts
4. Develop strategies for personal and organizational adaptation to changing work environments
5. Participate in shaping the future of work through informed action and advocacy