Q&A: Why This Edtech Exec Prioritizes Affordability & Quality

Stephen Green, a prominent figure in the evolution of higher education, plays a pivotal role at Noodle Partners, where he focuses on making online education more accessible and affordable. Having previously held executive positions at 2U, Inc., eCornell, and Qubed Education, Green has observed a significant transformation in online learning over the past decade, shifting from a "lowbrow" perception to a more credible and enriching experience. The pandemic accelerated this shift, pushing institutions to quickly adapt and recognize the potential of online education for expanding access and equity. Green emphasizes the importance of creating an ecosystem of specialized service providers to reduce operational costs for universities, advocating for transparency over revenue-sharing models. As the industry evolves, the focus remains on enhancing graduate programs while striving to improve the undergraduate online experience, acknowledging the challenges of replicating in-person social interactions in a virtual environment.