About the Episode
About the Episode: Michael D. Smith shares profound insights on the digital transformation of higher education, emphasizing the moral and social justice aspects intertwined with technological disruption. Drawing parallels between higher education and other industries, he advocates for a shift from preserving traditional models to focusing on missions that align with societal needs and technological advancements. The episode underscores the importance of accessibility, diversity, and the reevaluation of credentials in fostering a more equitable educational landscape.
Key Takeaways
- Higher Education is Facing Moral and Financial Challenges: The current system perpetuates inequities and is economically unsustainable.
- Technology Offers Solutions: Digital tools can lower costs, expand access, and create more inclusive learning environments.
- Innovative Examples are Emerging: Programs like ASU’s hybrid organic chemistry labs and platforms like Outlier.org are redefining how education is delivered.
- We Need a New Credential Ecosystem: Institutions must rethink how they validate and signal skills to employers, moving beyond traditional four-year degrees.
- Collaboration is Key: Faculty and staff can leverage digital tools to improve their teaching and better meet student needs.
Episode Summary
Why Higher Education Needs Transformation
Michael begins by outlining the dual crisis facing higher education: it’s both financially and morally unsustainable. Drawing on research by economist Raj Chetty, he highlights glaring inequities in access to elite education. For example, children born into the top 1% of income have a 1 in 4 chance of attending a highly selective university, compared to a 1 in 300 chance for those in the bottom 20%.
This status quo, Michael argues, reinforces wealth inequality and fails to meet the mission of higher education. To move forward, institutions must embrace systemic change, leveraging technology to create more equitable opportunities.
Technology as an Enabler of Change
Michael shares inspiring examples of how technology can expand access and improve outcomes:
- Outlier.org’s Accessible Learning Model: This platform offers high-quality courses taught by diverse instructors, allowing students to choose who best fits their learning style. Outlier’s partnership with the University of Pittsburgh enables students to earn transferable college credit, breaking down barriers to entry.
- ASU’s Hybrid Organic Chemistry Lab: Arizona State University reimagined its lab curriculum by delivering theory online and hosting an intensive, in-person lab week. This approach maintained academic rigor while increasing access and fostering stronger student identities as scientists.
These examples demonstrate the power of digital tools to tailor education to diverse student needs while maintaining high standards.
Rethinking the Credential
The current reliance on the four-year degree as the sole marker of educational achievement limits opportunities for many students. Michael argues that new credentialing systems—such as micro-credentials, badges, and certificates—can bridge the gap between learning and career readiness.
However, he cautions that the value of these credentials hinges on widespread recognition by employers and educational institutions. By working collaboratively, higher education can create a robust ecosystem that validates alternative credentials and ensures their relevance in the job market.
Rediscovering Higher Education’s Mission
At its core, higher education exists to create opportunities for individuals and advance society. Michael challenges institutions to move beyond protecting outdated business models and focus instead on fulfilling this mission. By embracing change, universities can:
- Increase Access: Create pathways for underserved populations through flexible modalities and cost-effective programs.
- Foster Collaboration: Use digital tools to connect faculty, students, and external experts for richer learning experiences.
- Champion Social Justice: Address systemic inequities by reevaluating admissions practices, costs, and credentialing systems.
Higher education is at a crossroads. The question is no longer whether change is needed, but how quickly institutions can adapt to meet the needs of today’s learners. The Abundant University offers a compelling roadmap for this transformation, showing how digital tools and a renewed focus on mission can lead to a more accessible, equitable, and impactful future.
About the Show: The Higher Ed Geek Podcast explores the impact of edtech on the student experience by speaking with diverse leaders from institutions, companies, and nonprofit organizations. Each week we aim to provide an engaging, fun, and relevant dose of professional development that honors the wide range of work happening all across the higher ed ecosystem. Come geek out with us! The Higher Ed Geek Podcast is hosted by Dustin Ramsdell and is a proud member of the Enrollify Podcast Network.
Connect With Our Host:
Dustin Ramsdell
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/
https://twitter.com/HigherEd_Geek
About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!
Some of our favorites include Generation AI and I Wanna Work There.
Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.
Connect with Us at the Engage Summit:
Exciting news — Dustin will be at the 2024 Engage Summit in Raleigh, NC, on June 25 and 26, and we’d love to meet you there! Sessions will focus on cutting-edge AI applications that are reshaping student outreach, enhancing staff productivity, and offering deep insights into ROI.
Use the discount code Enrollify50 at checkout, and you can register for just $99! This early bird pricing lasts until March 31.
Learn more and register at engage.element451.com — we can’t wait to see you there!
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