From steam engines to smartphones, we’ve already lived through three industrial revolutions that transformed how we work, live, and learn. But the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) is something different. It’s faster. It’s digital. And it’s happening right now. AI, automation, biotech, and a global gig economy are rewriting the rules—and the old playbook for education won’t cut it anymore.
If you’re still preparing your child for the world you grew up in, you may be setting them up to fall behind. Let’s explore what the 4IR really means—and how you, as a parent or homeschooler, can make sure your child is not only ready for the future, but leading it.
And yes, it really IS not that hard to homeschool, even during a time of disruption. With the right tools- all of which you can find right here at It’s Not That Hard to Homeschool – you can homeschool confidently, competently, even contentedly.
4 Industrial Revolutions?
In 8th grade I learned about the Industrial Revolution that started in the late 1800 and ended around 1920’s. I understood this to be the “age of modernity” that ushered in modern conveniences like flush toilets, cars and clean water, along with modern warfare and public education. It meant inexpensive and widespread healthcare, cars, phones and cleanliness.
In the last 10 years I’ve learned that there were previous Industrial Revolutions and we are currently in the 4th Industrial Revolutions. Industrial Revolutions change how we communicate and travel, and as a result, our interactions with the world. This 4th Industrial Revolution is no different in that regard. In this series, I hope to shed light on how we can best prepare our kids to launch during this time of great societal disruption so that they can not just survive in a topsy turvy world, but thrive.
First up, let’s do a quick review of each of the 4 Industrial Revolutions. I’m a homeschool Momma, after all, so history lessons just come naturally, can I get a witness?
The 1st IR
Time: late 1700s – the mid 1800’s.
Tech: Steam and textile production.
Steam changed the way we traveled, allowing us to move great distances by RR and steamboats. This created faster, more reliable transportation and allowed people and goods to travel great distances more reliably. This also allowed for the rise of print newspapers and more reliable postal services. People could connect farther, faster. For the first time, people could move and communicate beyond their local village. The world has become more connected!
The 2nd IR
Time: late 1800’s – early 1900’s
Tech: Electricity, steel and the internal combustion engine.
Automobiles and airplanes were developed and mass produced, urban infrastructures grew- subways and streetcars allowed people to move daily beyond their neighborhoods, the telephone was invented and people could communicate with other immediately across the globe, the radio allowed us to be connected to far flung g people and faster printing press expanded the reach of the news. Travel become more personal and urbanized and communication was available in real time and to almost everyone
The 3rd IR
Time: Mid 1900’s -early 2000’s
Tech: Computers, digital technology, the internet
Global travel became affordable and frequent and even space travel became possible! GPS tech enabled navigation that was safer and smarter. Communication expanded with the explosion of email and cell phones and the internet revolutionized how people connected. Satellite communications allowed the planet to be globally connected in a way never before imagined! We are now globally connected!
The 4th IR
Time: 2010- present
Tech: AI, robotics, biotech, IoT, 5G, blockchain
Autonomous vehicles and drone development, smart cities that optimize traffic and transportation, even space tourism and commercial space travel are changing how we travel, deliver nad receive information and products. Artificial intelligence is changing all industries, particularly communication with smart devices and AI assistants as well as global platforms that allow for instant, immersive and multilingual communication. We even have neural- computer interface systems!
The 4th IR is here and it’s changing how we live, educate and think!
As parents, concerned with educating our kids, it’s important to be aware of what’s going on in order to get our kids future ready!
This article is the first in a series on the 4th Industrial Revolution! Stay tuned for practical tips and resources!
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The Fourth Industrial Revolution is already transforming the way we live, work, and learn—so why send your student down a traditional path that’s already outdated?
At True North Academy, our Dual Degree program is built for the future, equipping students with real-world skills and an accredited college degree by the time they finish high school. It’s efficient, affordable, and designed for learners who want to graduate ahead of the curve, not behind it.
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Lisa Nehring and her husband, Dr. David Nehring, a Clinical Psychologist, and Biblical Scholar speak together on a wide variety of topics, including education, classical education, vision, mission, parenting, marriage, and more.
