It has long been proven that adaptive institutions of higher learning are those that will do best over the long term. Generally, this ability to change and the propensity for flexibility shown by higher education has been encouraged, and it is now both essential and necessary for their very survival. Higher education is in a state of flux, and the next ten years of higher education, it is argued, will be quite uncertain. This article aims to show that there will need to be some very specific changes made in this sector and by the individual institutions of learning if they are to keep pace with current demand and the societal changes that have been occurring.
Why there needs to be change
- Increased demand
There has been an increased demand for higher education across all spectrums and on a global basis. The rationale for this has been noted that young people are rational, and as the uncertainty increases, more are opting to study rather than entering the workforce. The qualifications being seen as an insurance of sorts and something that can be used to secure and protect their futures. There is thus a need to meet this demand and offer what students are interested in.
- Must have a viable option for all online
Where higher education is offered, the platforms and accessibility thereto have now become increasingly important. With restrictions on socializing and guidelines on social distancing, all higher education that traditionally only offered their wares at brick-and-mortar institutions are now being forced to look online to be able to reach the students they need for financial viability. There is thus a need for all institutions to begin to move their courses online, from the simple undergraduate courses to the postgraduate online masters in education; they are all looking to find a space online.
- Students have changed
It’s not just the young post-school or college students that are embarking on higher education courses. There has been a huge increase in adult learners and those looking to shift or change careers. Students now juggle more than just their learning and nightlives, but children, running a home, jobs, and businesses. High education needs to be able to adjust, to meet the needs of all their students, recognizing that there is no homogenous idea of the higher education student.
- Financial pressures being experienced in higher education
Higher education is a lot more competitive, and with the reduction in funding from governments, there is a need for improved financial models and a drive towards financial sustainability. This means that there needs to be an increase in learners to cover costs, but also a reduction in overheads. The reduction in overheads is one of the main aspects that starting an online version of your traditional course can bring to the institution and has been the financial savior of many a traditional educational institution.
- The economy is changing, and the skills that are needed is changing
As the economy changes, the skills and human resources required by business, manufacturing, the service industry, and in fact, across the board, have changed and adapted to the knowledge and information age we are in. It is thus incumbent for the purveyors of knowledge and initiators of innovative societal solutions to be on the cutting edge.
The changes that need to happen
All institutions of higher learning that aim to remain current and achieve sustainability will thus need to improve planning, perfect their communication, and problem solving to adjust and prepare. There are also various specific aspects or processes that will need to be completed for this change process to be successful.
How this can be achieved
- Ironically the first step in all of these processes must be research
Before any changes are made to the type, mode of presentation, and paradigms of teaching for higher education, there needs to be an elevated level of detailed research. Understanding the online higher education market is as essential as having a clear picture of the demand for higher education and the expectations of potential and current students. Each institution or organization needs to be clear as to what their focus is and where they fit into what is becoming a highly competitive online space.
- Reflection on how far the institution has come
Unless the institution is clear of its history and where it comes from, it will be incredibly difficult to establish a following for its online courses. Furthermore, moving a bad reputation online won’t change it or make it any better. It is thus incumbent to be sure of the brand and the reputation of the brand before you begin to diversify or move online. The recognition of the backstory and promotion of pedigree is vital if online education is going to be successful. This is simply based on the fact that the number of offerings has now reached levels never seen before, and to stand out or compete, you will have to pull out all the stops and show why your institution is the one to choose.
- Technology
Unless the institution and its courses, assessments, practicals, and assignments are all done online in a seamless fashion using cloud computing tech that allows for speed, immediacy, and consistency, then it will not be able to compete in this space. The online higher education sector has become incredibly competitive, and as such, it is paramount to have the right technical know-how, support, and infrastructure before you enter the sector.
Final remarks
Higher education, as aforementioned, is in a state of flux, and there is much debate as to what needs to happen and who should be responsible for the changes at this level. The internet has also added a layer of uncertainty, yet also opportunity and possibility to this debate. Higher education will be the biggest driver of societal change and innovation and is thus a vital component of the modern information age. This article has shown that what is, however, crystal clear, is the need for such change. Whether in higher education or a teacher in the sector, it is imperative to keep abreast of these changes, so that engagement in and with the sector is done from an informed position.
