What’s Next For Higher Education: A Look Into The Future Of Learning

The United States and beyond are witnessing a transformation in higher education; given the rising cost of obtaining a degree, this is a shock to no one. With this in mind, higher education is at a precipice. So what comes next for higher education? Unfortunately, while increased pressure is being applied from within and outside, the “Ivory Tower” has not yet acknowledged this and remains in a state of denial. It continues its campaign of “if we build it, they will come.” This very notion ignores what today’s students hold valuable. Individuals are looking for a means to an end. They seek skills and training to secure a stable, more equitable living.

Higher education dilemma

When considering the number of educational institutions facing declining enrollment, diminished funding, request for more robust accountability for their current funding, and amplified competition, it is enough to make one question whether the is genuinely focusing on the right set of issues. Couple this with the number of people retiring from the active workforce; institutions must position themselves as strategic partners capable of providing a sustainable pipeline to global employers.

For this exercise, let’s focus on the phenomenon of diminishing enrollments. I implore institutions to consider whether they have neglected the fundamentals of evolution and adaptation. Our environment ultimately influences us, and if we do not adjust to its changing conditions, it will most likely start a chain reaction leading to our downfall. We will begin to see more institutions fold, merge, or rebrand themselves as online-only institutions if they can part ways with their physical infrastructure. Simply put, those who fail to evolve and adapt fail to secure a sustainable future and their ultimate survival in the modern student era.

A mature entity

As corporate partnerships become a more lucrative approach, higher education is no longer a business that requires government backing to thrive but rather a more established industry. Yet, the question remains: have higher education institutions considered this shift in perspective? Can we achieve more with fewer resources and use the innovations we have created? Unfortunately, higher education still needs to reinvent itself proactively, leading to more efficient and innovative means of meeting the demands and needs of the modern student. Nevertheless, some universities have understood this and are making the necessary changes, translating into steady and increasing enrollments.

Take a moment to consider these queries:

• Are a handful of academic programs carrying the institutions?
• Are we truthful about who is our actual competition?
• Are we aware of our institution’s core competencies, and are they adequately leveraged to ensure a sustainable competitive advantage?
• Is the institution leveraging proven, current operational and educational practices, or is it stuck in the past?
• Is the institution aligned with the needs of employers?
• Are students walking out of your institution ready to have a profound impact on a company from day one?
• Are you creating strategic and global thinkers capable of solving complex problems?

There is a great deal of excitement over the potential of technology and the continued impact it will have on higher education. The need for some degree of formal training will continue to grow. However, what that need looks like will continue to evolve beyond the traditional format and offerings of existing institutions of higher education. Still, the question remains whether institutions have the vision and agility to meet the challenges of the 21st Century and beyond. The answer is complicated but can be found through re-imaged philosophies, business plans, and processes designed to address the above points. The only way to answer a question is to ask it. If higher education institutions are willing to think outside the box, finding realistic and sustainable solutions will be possible.

This conversation must be had authentically, intending to move the center of innovation into the future.