| | JUNE 20248IN MY OPINION Several key drivers profoundly shape the evolving landscape of education, particularly in higher education. Firstly, the rapid advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) coupled with the exponential growth of knowledge fundamentally alter the educational paradigm. This technological revolution brings the dual potential for innovation and the spread of misinformation, necessitating a reevaluation of what, how, and even why students learn. It reminds me of the impact felt when computers and the Internet became more accessible in education. Initially, there was widespread fear of cheating, reducing students' abilities, and of computers replacing faculty. Today, most educators embrace using computers to support teaching and learning, although concerns about cheating remain, highlighting the importance of embracing change while addressing legitimate concerns.Secondly, industries are experiencing rapid transformations driven by technological advancements, necessitating a corresponding evolution in the skills and competencies sought from prospective employees. The shift towards competency-based hiring practices underscores the growing emphasis on practical skills acquisition over traditional degree credentials. This trend has led to a surge in demand for professional education programs, particularly in STEM fields, to meet the evolving needs of the workforce.Thirdly, learners' expectations and circumstances are evolving, with an increasing number seeking education beyond traditional campus settings. Factors such as remote work opportunities and the impending reality of space colonization necessitate innovative approaches to reach and support learners regardless of their geographical location. Additionally, the rise of personalized learning and the integration of virtual and augmented reality technologies offer promising avenues for delivering tailored educational experiences.Educational institutions must adopt a proactive approach to address these multifaceted challenges and opportunities. For instance, one of our unique online degree programs is "Space Resources", which studies the identification, extraction, processing, and utilization of materials in space. This program has caused us to consider education beyond NAVIGATING THE TRANSFORMATIVE WAVES: ADAPTING HIGHER EDUCATION TO TECHNOLOGICAL, INDUSTRIAL, AND LEARNER EVOLUTIONBy Sam Spiegel, Assistant Vice President for Online Education, Colorado School of MinesSam Spiegel
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