In this episode of the Changing Higher Ed podcast, host Dr. Drumm McNaughton is joined by Amrit Ahluwalia, the incoming Executive Director for Continuing Studies at Western University. They discuss the evolving role and models of higher education institutions and the need for transformative change to remain relevant and sustainable in the evolving marketplace. Drawing from their diverse backgrounds and unique vantage points, they explore how continuing education divisions can play a broader role in shaping the university's impact.

Key Discussion Points

The Shifting Models of Higher Education:

• Changing expectations and perceptions of education among learners, driven by factors such as technological advancements and workforce demands.
• The need for higher education institutions to adapt and respond to these changing needs, moving away from being gatekeepers of knowledge to facilitators of learner outcomes.
• The role of institutions in supporting lifelong learning journeys and providing pathways for continuous skill development and career growth.

Redefining the Institutional Role:

• Transitioning from a traditional teaching and learning-based business model to an information-based, learner relationship management approach.
• Recognizing the diverse needs of learners and offering tailored learning opportunities to meet their specific goals and career aspirations.
• Leveraging partnerships, outsourcing, and strategic collaborations to focus on core competencies and provide comprehensive support services.

Transforming Continuing Education:

• Positioning continuing education divisions as catalysts for democratizing access to institutional expertise and resources.
• Exploring innovative models like the "60 Year Curriculum" to foster lifelong learning and professional development.
• Leveraging market research and industry partnerships to align program offerings with workforce demands and future trends.

Three Key Takeaways for Higher Education Presidents and Boards

1. Facilitate student-centricity by intentionally designing institutional processes and offerings around learner needs and outcomes.
2. Pivot towards a lifelong education ecosystem, positioning the institution as a facilitator of continuous learning journeys rather than a gatekeeper of short-term knowledge acquisition.
3. Resource and empower continuing education divisions to play a vital role in bringing institutional resources to diverse audiences and driving community, regional, and national growth.

Final Thoughts

The episode emphasizes the urgency of higher education institutions embracing transformative change and innovation. By adopting a learner-centric approach, fostering lifelong learning opportunities, and leveraging the potential of continuing education, institutions can remain relevant, sustainable, and aligned with the evolving needs of learners and the workforce.

Read the transcript on our website →

About Our Podcast Guest

Amrit Ahluwalia is the incoming Executive Director of Continuing Studies at Western University in London, Ontario, Canada. He joins Western University in March 2024 after over a decade leading The EvoLLLution publication, an online newspaper focused on transformation and change in the higher education space.

About the Host

Dr. Drumm McNaughton is a consultant to higher education institutions in governance, accreditation, strategy and change, and mergers. To learn more about his services and other thought leadership pieces, visit his firm's website: https://changinghighered.com/.

The Change Leader's Social Media Links

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdrumm/
• Twitter: @thechangeldr
• Email: [email protected]

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