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“ It suggests that , as with other resources that have peaked , our total demand for learning will decline . I would suggest that our demand for knowledge and learning will grow , but how and where we will seek and obtain it from will diversify .”
But Betts does agree with another of the EY paper ’ s conclusions .
“ The argument that more of our learning will align more closely with work and employers is spot on . It has been happening for some time already . There are few universities that are not seeking to offer work-integrated learning experiences for just about all of their students . Some form of initiative towards micro-credentials is underway in just about every university and we should expect to see many more ventures in this space ,” he told Campus Review .
Betts also added that “ platforms and innovation in the digital space to provide personalised experiences are already emerging in our hybrid learning approaches ”.
“ There will be many more versions of such platforms building on technologies more than just AI . These will be part of a new learning economy which will be based on growth . It is a long way from any peak .
“ And this is where the partnership and commercial opportunities for universities will be focused . Few , if any , universities are pursuing or likely to pursue research commercialisation as a mainstream revenue source . It offers little prospect to replace international student fee revenue or government funding . Few vicechancellors , or others with knowledge and experience of the sector , are putting their attention in that space as the environment in Australia is not conducive for it . Research engagement and impact , and connecting universities with communities is a stronger feature of emerging university strategies ,” Betts continued .
“ The best way for all universities preparing for the uncertain future facing
Our demand for knowledge and learning will grow , but how and where we will seek and obtain it from will diversify .
them is to undertake a full health check of their current strategy , culture , partnerships and levels of engagement of all their stakeholders . They need to use that as a basis for initiating innovation programs with partners , for growth in learning demand , of a more diversified nature .
“ The new learning economy will see current players increasingly pursuing digital innovation with partners . The campus and university of the future will meet the evolving needs of a society rapidly shape-shifting in hybrid ways ,” Betts said . ■
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