Future-Proofing Higher Education Means Staying Flexible
Community colleges, which have been catering to students with diverse needs for decades, were early adopters of remote learning. As students at universities of all sizes have made their preference for flexible learning known, community colleges share best practices for hybrid learning programs that stand the test of time.
These online learning environments present a learning curve for instructors, which is why institutions like the University of Central Florida have invested in faculty development through digital learning offices.
Embracing emerging technology also requires adaptability as faculty and staff introduce it into the classroom. Virtual reality is transforming medical education, from teaching anatomy classes to allowing students to practice bedside manner. At Morehouse College, this technology is bringing immersive learning experiences to the next generation of diverse professionals.
Institutional goals also can force change upon universities. Supplier diversity is increasingly baked into university procurement strategies. Schools including the City University of New York are using these programs to put money into the local economy and provide mentorship opportunities to small and diverse suppliers. And a recent Supreme Court decision has impacted an institution’s ability to provide devices to student-athletes to help foster academic success.
Letting go of the status quo and remaining amenable to new and innovative ways of thinking is key to a nimble higher education institution.
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Ryan Petersen
Editor in Chief
