In the changing world of higher education, colleges worldwide are looking for new ways to make their programs better. For the past forty years, the US and the UK, as well as groups like the OECD, have tried to push for educational success through policies1. They have focused on doing well in tests that cover reading, math, and science to see how good the education system is1. Now, colleges are working hard to meet the new needs of students, employers, and society. They want to show that getting a college degree leads to good things for individuals and for society.
The US Federal Report “A Nation at Risk” pushed for achieving excellence in education on personal, school, and social levels. It suggested setting high standards and using tough tests to improve schools1. The UK White Paper “Excellence in Schools” also aimed for high quality in education for all students. It put in place policies to lift up the whole education system1. These changes, with help from global programs such as the OECD’s PISA, have given us ways to look at the quality, fairness, and efficiency of education systems globally. They help us understand how well students can fit into society1.
Key Takeaways
- The pursuit of educational excellence has been a driving force behind national policies and international initiatives in the US, UK, and through the OECD’s PISA Programme.
- Policies have aimed to improve overall achievement, with a focus on standardized test results in core subjects like literacy, mathematics, and science.
- Reports like “A Nation at Risk” and “Excellence in Schools” have emphasized the importance of high standards and rigorous assessments to drive school improvement and excellence.
- The OECD’s PISA Programme serves as a global benchmark for evaluating the quality, equity, and efficiency of school systems worldwide.
- Aligning student expectations and institutional goals is crucial in addressing the shifting demands of the higher education landscape.
Understanding the Purpose of Higher Education
Universities have been important places for learning, research, and leadership training for a long time2. Their role has changed over the years, putting more focus on readying students for jobs and helping the economy2.
Analyzing the Economic and Social Benefits of Completing a College Degree
Studies show, earning a college degree brings big economic and social advantages2. With a bachelor’s, people make more money, are healthier, and give more to charity than those with only a high school education2. The idea that education boosts productivity and spurs economic growth is central to theories, such as human capital and new growth theories.
| Benefit | Impact |
|---|---|
| Increased Earning Potential | Adults with a bachelor’s degree earn, on average, 67% more than those with only a high school diploma2. |
| Improved Health Outcomes | College graduates have lower rates of obesity, diabetes, and other chronic health conditions compared to those without a degree2. |
| Higher Rates of Charitable Giving | College graduates are more likely to donate to charitable organizations and volunteer their time to support their communities2. |
Even with these benefits, colleges and universities are being questioned about their future worth2. To meet these challenges, universities need to change. They should focus more on what students need and adjust their courses to match the job market2.
“The purpose of a college education is to help students develop intellectually, personally, and professionally, preparing them to lead productive and meaningful lives.”
By fully realizing the good that higher education does and making it more accessible and fitting, these places can keep improving lives and society234.
The Changing Role of Higher Education
The goal of higher education has changed over time. It’s seen more as a personal benefit due to a new model. This model focuses on individual gains rather than a common good5. Because of this, schools and universities are more focused on preparing students for the job market.
At the same time, they aim to develop their understanding of democracy and citizenship5. Finding this balance is a big challenge for higher education today.
Now, higher education faces more demands to improve access and affordability. Schools must also enhance the skills and traits students need5. This leads to different schools meeting various needs. Each institution aims to serve a range of people and their goals5.
The world today is making it hard for higher education to be fair to all. Some places are trying to stop programs that aim for fairness. They want to see more changes so everyone has a fair chance to succeed6. Making sure higher education is inclusive is very important now6.
Some places, like Latin America, are seeing fewer young people wanting to go for higher education. This is because there are fewer young individuals and the promise of a good future from education is less clear7. But, technology is changing how we learn. It’s also making it easier for adults to keep learning throughout their lives7.
Dealing with these changes is hard for higher education places. They must stick to their main goals of building good citizens and supporting personal growth. But, they also have to keep up with the job market and changes in the population567.
“The dismantling of diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts in higher education institutions is a current issue that requires urgent structural changes.”
Higher Education Excellence
Higher education must change to fit society’s new needs. Schools need to update what they teach, how they teach, and how they test students. These changes will help all students learn what they need to succeed in the world and make a difference in society8.
It’s important for students to think critically, communicate well, and solve problems. Also, doing senior projects is key. Although many good jobs are for college grads, some employers struggle to find skilled new hires. They say recent grads aren’t ready for work8. Fixing this gap is crucial for schools to be top-notch and get students ready for their careers.
The Higher Education Excellence in Diversity Award is one way schools are recognized for supporting diversity and inclusion. It’s given out by Insight Into Diversity to colleges in the U.S. and Canada8. Schools show what they’re doing to help everyone feel included, from recruitment to how they run their schools8.
This year, many U.S. universities and colleges got the HEED Award. Schools like Columbia, Carnegie Mellon, and Johns Hopkins stood out for their diversity work9. These places really go the extra mile to welcome students from all backgrounds9.
Also, colleges from California, Florida, and Texas won the HEED Award. This shows a big push for inclusivity in higher education9. Even big names like UC Berkeley and the University of Chicago have won before. It shows the awards’ broad impact9.
In 2024, the Indiana Educational Excellence Awards Gala will give schools up to $5 million for supporting student success. They’ll reward schools for different achievements, from STEM to community work10. This aims to boost every aspect of student learning and growth10.
By changing how higher education works, by praising what schools do right, and by funding new ideas, colleges can make learning better. This helps students succeed in a fast-changing world and be great for their communities8. This whole approach boosts students, helps teachers do better, and makes colleges standout in quality, success, and community involvement.
Aligning Student Expectations and Institutional Goals
Making student expectations match institutional goals is key in higher education. Studies show a big difference in how colleges see a degree’s value and how students do11. Students often think about personal gains from college, but colleges focus on making big changes in society11. This gap can cause disappointment. Professors may be let down if students don’t go beyond the basics. In turn, students might not see the value in lessons that don’t seem linked to their future careers11.
In response, more and more schools are using the Essential Learning Outcomes (ELOs) and related programs to align their goals11. These efforts are meant to change how students learn and achieve. Involving teachers in the process has led to better results for students and programs11.
Bridging the Gap Between Education Providers and Students
Schools are turning to Objectives and Key Results (OKRs) to meet more student needs12. By setting clear goals and following up on them, like tracking course finishes and student happiness, schools keep their education on target12. Each department can also set OKRs that help the whole school, focusing on student retention or helping graduates find jobs12.
OKRs also bring a sense of responsibility and open communication to schools. This helps everyone, from teachers to students, understand how they can help reach the school’s targets12. Recognizing achievements and learning from what doesn’t work are key. This keeps everyone motivated and helps adjust strategies to fit student and school needs better12.
Facing another challenge, schools are working closely with K-12 partners to make sure students are ready for college success13. Plans include aiding students before they start college, changing how they are placed in courses, and making the first year of college smoother13.
Matching what students hope to get from their education with what schools aim to achieve benefits everyone. It makes the learning experience better and readies students for the job market and more111213.
Economic Benefits of Higher Education
Finishing college brings many economic rewards. Workers with college degrees create over half of our country’s wealth each year14. This shows how important advanced education is for our economy. It proves that investing in college is smart for people and our society15.
College graduates earn more money over their lives and help their communities. They are also healthier. These facts make many students want to go to college and finish15.
Data clearly shows that higher education helps individuals succeed and societies move forward16. In the OECD countries, the number of adults with a college degree has doubled since 199816. Those with a bachelor’s earn 43% more than those with just high school16.
Higher education doesn’t just benefit individuals. In the UK, for example, each college graduate brings in £110,000 for the government for men and £30,000 for women over their lifetime16. Also, a higher percentage of college-educated people have jobs16. This makes our workforce more skilled and efficient.
Today, the world needs more well-educated people than ever before. By making education more accessible, we can create economic advantages for everyone. This helps individuals and their communities. It is a key part of building a better future141516.
The Blended Institution of Higher Education Model
Higher education has been changing fast. The Blended Institution of Higher Education (BIHE) model is a new way forward. It puts students and their success first, making sure everyone has an equal chance to do well17.
This model mixes technology with teaching in a smart way. It aims to give students an all-round experience. Leaders use it to plan for the future of their schools, thinking about what students need and what the world is asking for17.
A Vision for a Sustainable and Student-Centered Institution
The BIHE model aims to keep schools strong, even in hard times. It uses a mix of online and in-person learning, technology, and focuses heavily on students. This promises to make education more fair, help students succeed, and keep schools going strong for a long time1718.
Blended learning, mixing online and in-person classes, is becoming very popular. More students are choosing these ways to study. After the pandemic, the BIHE model is a good plan to use this kind of learning to improve how students learn and do in their classes18.
The BIHE way also uses technology to make sure more students can join in. They’re big on making things equal and helping students do well. This matches the changing needs of schools. They are looking to change how they do things for the better for a long time19.
The BIHE model is a great guide for school leaders. It helps them make schools that last, even through tough times. Mixing learning and technology, and putting students first, the model looks towards a future where education is fair and creative171819.
Strategic Objectives for Higher Education Excellence
The University of Wisconsin System has laid out its 2023-2028 Strategic Plan with four key goals20. These goals are essential for making higher education excellent. They focus on making the student experience better, helping people move up in society, impacting the world through knowledge, and boosting the economy21.
The plan is packed with ways to reach these goals. It wants to make sure more students, including those often overlooked, get a fair shot. It values things like free speech and academic liberty, cares about the planet, and aims for top-notch teaching by hiring a diverse group of teachers22.
By sticking to these goals, the University of Wisconsin System aims to radically change how students experience college. It aims to inspire new ideas, better society, and add to our knowledge21.
To meet these ambitions, everyone’s help is needed. Teachers, leaders, students, graduates, and others must all pitch in21. By working together and spending resources wisely, the University can make a bigger positive effect with its work21.
Higher education is always changing, but these goals keep the University of Wisconsin System on a clear path. They guide the school to be a shade bearer in academics, fairness, and bringing wealth to the region20.
“The University of Wisconsin System’s strategic plan serves as a guiding light, illuminating our path towards a future where higher education is a transformative force that empowers individuals, strengthens communities, and propels our society forward.”
Promoting Excellence in Teaching and Learning
To excel in higher education, we must prioritize teaching quality and better learning outcomes. This means focusing on who we bring in, how we help them grow, and why they stay. Creating a welcoming, fair workplace and offering competitive pay and professional growth lets academics do their best work23.
Recruiting, Developing, and Retaining High-Quality Faculty and Staff
Institutions should aim to build an outstanding teaching culture by hiring, training, and keeping the best mix of teachers and support staff. They do this by drawing top talent, aiding their development, and creating places where they can thrive23. For example, the University recognized several outstanding educators and supports their work through various programs and fellowships23.
These schools also offer ongoing learning opportunities for their staff, such as workshops, summer programs, and external expert training. Helping teachers evolve their skills and innovate enhances the learning environment for students24.
It’s also vital to provide fair pay and paths for career growth to keep valuable staff. Offering competitive salaries and benefits shows how much these institutions value their community25. Setting clear standards and rewarding great teaching is part of this effort25.
By taking care of their faculty and staff through ongoing learning, balanced workplaces, and fair pay, universities can form a strong, diverse educational team. This team is driven to create life-changing learning experiences232425.
“Investing in our faculty and staff is the foundation for unlocking the full potential of our students and driving institutional excellence.”
Championing Democratic Principles and Sustainability
Universities are key in promoting free speech, academic freedom, and civil discussions26. Claudine Gay, Harvard University’s upcoming president, is a leading voice in American political activity. She started Harvard’s Inequality in America Initiative and helped begin a Ph.D. program in quantum science26.
These schools should stand for democracy, helping students think deeply and critically27. Yvette M. Alex-Assensoh, a higher education expert, is known for pushing inclusive excellence at top schools27. They work to make sure students get these big ideas, through teaching and clear rules to protect these freedoms.
Keeping universities stable and green is critical to do their best work27. Dexter A. Bailey Jr., at California Institute of Technology, helped them raise over $3.4 billion recently27. This involves saving money, adjusting tuition, and getting support from others, as shown by the Wisconsin-Minnesota reciprocity arrangement28.
By standing for democracy and being financially smart, universities can be lights of progress and learning, ready to face major world issues28.
“Universities must be unwavering in their commitment to free expression, academic freedom, and civil discourse, as these principles are the cornerstone of a thriving democracy and the pursuit of knowledge.”
– Dr. Taffye Benson Clayton, Auburn University
| Key Strategies for Higher Education Sustainability | Description |
|---|---|
| Stakeholder Engagement | Building strong relationships with diverse stakeholders, including students, faculty, alumni, and community partners, to foster a shared understanding of institutional goals and priorities. |
| Shared Services | Implementing cost-effective shared services and best practices across university departments and functions to optimize resources and drive operational efficiency. |
| Tuition and Financial Aid | Carefully assessing tuition adjustment approaches and expanding financial aid programs to ensure affordability and accessibility for students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. |
| Philanthropic Giving | Supporting and expanding philanthropic giving to universities, leveraging the generosity of alumni, foundations, and other donors to fund critical initiatives and investments. |
| Policy Advocacy | Advocating for policies that benefit universities, such as the Wisconsin-Minnesota reciprocity arrangement, which promotes cross-border educational opportunities and shared resources. |
28 Some leaders have suggested focusing only on practical skills. However, universities need a mix, including arts and sciences28. Liberal arts help students think critically and solve problems creatively. They prepare people for a fast-changing world.
Conclusion
This article dove into key strategies for excelling in higher education. It looked at how to boost academic quality, research, and student success in US colleges and universities29. Understanding the goals of higher education helps institutions succeed in the long run. They do this by aligning what students want with what the school aims to achieve. This strategy leads to the growth of knowledge, skilled graduates, and societal improvement29.
The piece also discussed the benefits of earning a college degree. It introduced the concept of Blended Institutions, which combine various educational models. These help create an engaging environment for learning and professional growth29. Setting strategic goals, such as improving teaching quality and being sustainable, is crucial. These efforts enhance the impact and success of higher education in the long term30.
As higher education moves forward, aiming for excellence remains key for everyone involved. By adopting top-notch education strategies, US schools can make great strides in learning and research. They become leading examples of modern education, making a real difference in the 21st century31.
FAQ
What is the purpose of higher education?
What are the economic and social benefits of completing a college degree?
How has the role of higher education changed over time?
What are the key strategies for achieving higher education excellence?
How can higher education institutions align student expectations and institutional goals?
What is the Blended Institution of Higher Education (BIHE) model?
What are the strategic objectives for higher education excellence?
How can higher education institutions champion democratic principles and ensure sustainability?
Source Links
- https://www.erudit.org/en/journals/pie/2020-v27-n2-pie05740/1074040ar/ – On Educational Excellence – Philosophical Inquiry in Education
- https://evolllution.com/elevating-higher-education-imperatives-for-relevance-and-excellence – Elevating Higher Education: Imperatives for Relevance and Excellence
- https://www.ed.gov/raisethebar/college-excellence-equity – Raise the Bar: College Excellence and Equity
- https://sattler.edu/about-us/a-revolution-in-higher-education/ – A Revolution in Higher Education
- https://www.forbes.com/sites/petermcpherson/2022/10/19/advancing-equity-in-higher-education-to-achieve-excellence/ – Advancing Equity In Higher Education To Achieve Excellence
- https://www.diverseeducation.com/opinion/article/15677457/inclusive-excellence-demands-systemic-change-in-higher-ed – Inclusive Excellence Demands Systemic Change in Higher Ed
- https://www.iesalc.unesco.org/en/2023/12/07/the-transformation-of-higher-education/ – The transformation of higher education – UNESCO-IESALC
- https://www.insightintodiversity.com/about-the-heed-award/ – About the HEED Award
- https://www.insightintodiversity.com/about-the-heed-award/2023-recipients/ – 2023 HEED Award Recipients
- https://www.in.gov/doe/educators/teacher-recognition/educational-excellence-awards/ – Educational Excellence Awards
- https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/ED567005.pdf – PDF
- https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/leveraging-okrs-align-institutional-goals-student-shanmugasundaram-vcz7c – Leveraging OKRs to Align Institutional Goals with Student Learning Outcomes
- https://www.accs.edu/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Aligning-with-K-12-for-Student-Success.pdf – PDF
- https://www.csis.org/analysis/investing-quality-education-economic-development-peace-and-stability – Investing in Quality Education for Economic Development, Peace, and Stability
- https://research.collegeboard.org/media/pdf/education-pays-2004-full-report.pdf – 05-1018.EducationPays04TxtV4.indd
- https://www.hepi.ac.uk/2024/01/25/the-value-of-higher-education-in-developed-economies/ – The Value of Higher Education in Developed Economies – HEPI
- https://everylearnereverywhere.org/wp-content/uploads/The-Blended-Institution-for-Higher-Education.pdf – The Blended Institution of Higher Education
Institution of
Higher Education: A Model for a Sustainable Institution
- https://link.springer.com/article/10.1057/s41307-024-00359-y – A Process for Institutional Adoption and Diffusion of Blended Learning in Higher Education – Higher Education Policy
- https://hbr.org/2021/10/imagining-the-hybrid-college-campus – Imagining the Hybrid College Campus
- https://www.aacu.org/strategic-plan – Equity, Innovation, and Excellence | AAC&U
- https://www.scup.org/planning-type/strategic-planning/ – Strategic Planning – SCUP
- https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/ED524362.pdf – PDF
- https://www.ucd.ie/t4cms/Promoting Excellence in Teaching Report.pdf – fellows_report
- https://www.mbs.net/pillars/excellence-in-teaching-and-learning – Personalized Learning & Curricular Philosophy | MBS
- https://cet.usc.edu/usc-excellence-in-teaching-initiative/ – USC Excellence in Teaching Initiative – USC Center for Excellence in Teaching
- https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2022/12/harvard-names-claudine-gay-30th-president/ – Harvard names Claudine Gay 30th president — Harvard Gazette
- https://diversity.universityofcalifornia.edu/news-and-events/advancing-our-imperative-presenters.html – Educational Equity and the Future of Higher Education — Presenter Profiles
- https://www.hood.edu/discover/stories/liberal-education-womens-leadership-and-fierce-urgency-now – Liberal Education, Women’s Leadership and the “Fierce Urgency of Now”
- https://www.enqa.eu/wp-content/uploads/ENQA-Excellence-WG-Report_The-Concept-of-Excellence-in-Higher-Education.pdf – PDF
- http://oirap.rutgers.edu/msa/documents/eheguide5-29.pdf – PDF
- https://www.oecd-ilibrary.org/sites/2202a180-en/index.html?itemId=/content/component/2202a180-en – Home