While the worst-case scenarios regarding the future of higher education as discussed during the height of COVID-19 have thankfully not come to pass, there are still plenty of issues that need to be addressed. According to Dave Sherwood, CEO of BibliU, an education technology company focused on higher ed accessibility, the absence of apprenticeship—aka internship for us Yanks—programming in colleges is just one of many student frustrations that can lead to decreased competitiveness, limited educational offerings, and graduates who are ill-prepared to meet the needs of the job market.
In this conversation with eSchool news, Dave discusses the various challenges higher education ed faces post-pandemic, mainly focusing on enrollment declines and the need for institutions to adapt to student feedback. He emphasizes the importance of addressing the cost of education relative to future earning potential and mentions regulations to ensure this balance. Additionally, he highlights the need for institutions to offer more flexible and practical courses and touches on the role of technology and more specifically, what else, AI. Have a listen and scroll down for some more highlights.
Key Takeaways:
- Enrollment Declines: Many higher education institutions are facing enrollment declines, partly due to students questioning the value of education relative to its cost. These institutions need to address this issue to ensure their sustainability.
- Regulations and Gainful Employment: Both the US and the UK are considering regulations to force institutions to pay attention to students’ concerns about the cost and value of education, particularly regarding debt-to-salary ratios.
- Degree Apprenticeships/Internships: The success of degree apprenticeship programs in the UK, led by both universities and private companies, highlights the need for more practical and job-oriented courses in higher education in the US.
- Flexible Models: Institutions need to adapt to changing student demographics and offer flexible education options, including online, evening classes, and hybrid models.
- AI in Education: AI is becoming increasingly relevant in education, but its role in assessment methods remains uncertain. While AI can assist students and educators, institutions need to consider how to adapt to these technological changes in assessment.
- Change Management: Implementing significant changes in higher education requires strong leadership and the ability to bring various stakeholders, including faculty, administrators, and students, on board with the changes.
