Overview of the driving forces which are challenging Universities
In these times of rapid change, current conditions and possible future roles of the university need careful scrutiny. As a result of this change, universities are facing unique challenges and opportunities. Their analysis will help academia and education policy makers to drive these changes in the most desirable direction in their specific context. All these changes could affect the missions of universities in a variety of ways. Some questions which may guide the reflection on this topic are: What could be the main missions of the university? What could be its sources of funding? How can the commitment of the university to society in this rapidly evolving context be reinforced? How could these changes affect the learning and teaching process, as well as the role and the position of the university in society? What would the impact be for learners and academics, for the society and economy? According to Cox & Light (2001) higher education “no longer simply resides in society, it is of society, and being of society it has increasingly become subject to each society’s prevailing ideologies” (p.2). In other words, higher education no longer simply shapes society through the contribution of knowledge, but rather is shaped by society through knowledge specification (dialectic relationship).The literature reveals four interrelated fields which are pressuring universities to adopt new missions and strategies.
All these changes invite reflection on one of the most important goals of universities which is how universities ensure that students acquire significant knowledge, skills, and practical experience to prepare them for a successful integration into adult life. In response to the challenges, some universities are adopting strategies related to Competency Based Education (CBE). According to Guthrie, Harris, Hobart & Lundberg (1995) CBE is being implemented in many forms in many situations throughout the world.
If you are interesting in know more about this model please visit http://cbeandsocialwork.wikispaces.com/
I will really appreciate your comments and reflections.
