TLDR:
- Higher education faces challenges in inclusivity and knowledge development
- COVID-19 accelerated the adoption of digital methods in research, but teaching lagged behind
One of the key debates in higher education is the role it plays in knowledge development and exchange, with concerns about inclusivity and dominance of Western universities. The pandemic accelerated the adoption of digital methods in research, but teaching faced challenges due to the lack of national strategies. Post-pandemic, universities are now developing strategies for blended learning models. However, there is a need for better teacher professional development and investment in digital education. Concerns over the climate crisis and the UN SDGs have also increased, calling for universities to play a role in educating the workforce of today and tomorrow. The democratization of knowledge development and exchange through digital technologies can help harness diverse knowledge sources beyond traditional boundaries.
Overall, the article highlights the need for higher education institutions to embrace digital technologies for knowledge development, address the challenges brought by the pandemic, and play a significant role in addressing global issues like climate change and sustainability.