In his latest University Designs column and conversation, David Staley discusses the concept of plasticity in universities, drawing parallels with neuroplasticity in the human brain. He explores the challenges of institutional transformation and the importance of mindset shifts, as articulated in Jessica Riddell's work on hope circuits. The discussion emphasizes the need for universities to adapt and evolve, questioning their capacity for change and the role of language in shaping institutional practices.

Key takeaways:

• Innovation in universities requires expansive thinking.
• Translating visionary ideas into tangible change is challenging.
• Hope is intertwined with learning and flourishing.
• Language influences our capacity to achieve change.
• Riddell presents a mindset shift for fostering change.
• We can rewire institutions for human flourishing.
• Institutional self-knowledge is critical for transformation.
• The neuroplasticity metaphor raises questions about institutional capacity for change.
• Are universities capable of the plasticity Riddell envisions?
• How plastic is our organization?

Sounds bites:

• "We can rewire institutions for human flourishing."
• "Hope is a key mechanism in the rewiring process."
• "How plastic is our organization?"

Chapters

00:00The Plasticity of the University

02:46Hope Circuits and Institutional Transformation

04:12Challenges of Change in Higher Education