In a new book, Leapfrogging Inequality, Rebecca Winthrop and colleagues at the Center for Universal Education at Brookings chart a new path forward in global education by examining the possibility of “leapfrogging” educational development—rapidly accelerating progress to ensure that all young people develop the skills they need to thrive in a fast-changing world. Analyzing a catalog of almost 3,000 global education innovations, the largest such collection to date, the report explores the potential of today’s innovative practices to enable such a leap. It also presents an evidence-based, theoretical pathway for leapfrogging in education that can help guide investors, innovators, and governments alike. Together, these resources contribute to a global dialogue around preparing learners for the future of work and life.

Rebecca Winthrop is a senior fellow and director of the Center for Universal Education at the Brookings Institution. She is the former head of education for the International Rescue Committee, a humanitarian aid NGO. Her research focuses on education in the developing world, with special attention to innovative education models, the skills children need to succeed in life, and improving quality learning for the most marginalized children and youth, including girls and children affected by extreme violence.

Select recent publications include Can we leapfrog? The potential of education innovations to rapidly accelerate progress with Eileen McGivney and Adam Barton; Millions learning: Scaling up quality education in developing countries with Jenny Perlman Robinson; and What Works in Girls' Education: Evidence for the World's Best Investment with Gene B. Sperling.

Rebecca Winthrop studied at Columbia University, Teachers College (Ph.D, 2008), Columbia University, School of International and Public Affairs (MA, 2001), and Swarthmore College, (BA, 1996).

The Frank Rhodes Lecture on the Creation of the Future: A Lecture Series for a New American University began in Fall 2011 at the direction of ASU President Crow to help advance his vision for a New American University and the need to redefine the role of higher education in society. Each semester an individual with a commitment to institutional innovation will visit ASU to deliver a public lecture on the creation of the future as well as meet with members of the ASU and greater community.

For more information visit rhodes.asu.edu or contact the Office of University Initiatives: ui@asu.edu