Higher Education Digest – May 2023 – 10 Prominent Universities and Colleges to Watch in 2023

Managing Editor

Sarath Shyam

Consultant Editors

Dr. John Andrews

Emma James

Andrew Scott

Naomi Wilson

Stanly Lui

Joseph Alex

Creative Consultants

Charlie Jameson

Edwards Gonzalez

Jennifer Anderson

Alice Smith

Branding & Marketing Partnerships Enquiry admin@highereducationdigest.com

Monica Davis

Anna Elza

International Representation

Americas 16192 Coastal Highway, Lewes, DE 19958, USA

Europe

27, Old Gloucester Street, London, WC1N 3AX, UK

Middle East & Africa P.O. Box 48299, Dubai Silicon Oasis, Dubai, UAE

Asia-Pacific

Ramanashree Arcade, 18 MG Road, Bangalore – 560001, India

Higher Education Digest is a digital magazine published by Connecta Innovation Private Limited. All rights reserved. The opinions expressed in the content and pictures provided are those of the authors. They do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of the Connecta Innovation Private Limited or any of its members and we do not assume any responsibility. The publisher does not assume any responsibility for the advertisements, its content, pictures, and all representation of warranties made in such advertisements are those of the advertisers and not of the publisher.

Higher Education Digest is a Free Subscription digital magazine strictly not for sale and has to be strictly for internal private use only. Publisher does not assume any responsibility arising out of anyone printing copy of this digital magazine in any format and in any country and all matters related to that.

The Benefits of International Education and Choosing the Right Global University

International education has become increasingly important in our globalized world. With the rapid growth of international trade and the interconnectedness of economies, it is essential that we educate our students to be globally competitive. Attending a top global university can provide students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in an ever-changing world.

One of the key benefits of international education is exposure to different cultures and perspectives. Studying abroad allows students to learn about new cultures, languages, and customs, which can broaden their worldviews and enhance their communication skills. Besides, many of the best global universities attract some of the world’s most talented researchers, professors, and students. This creates a vibrant academic community

where students can engage in innovative research and gain valuable skills that will be useful throughout their careers.

Choosing the best global university for your studies is crucial. Factors such as academic reputation, program offerings, and location all play a role in determining the best fit for each individual student. Researching and comparing different universities is important to find the one that best meets your needs and aspirations. In this issue, we have identified 10 Prominent Universities and Colleges to Watch in 2023 that have been providing students with the knowledge, skills, and perspectives they need to succeed in their careers. We hope our efforts will help students to make informed decisions on their global education destination and prepare themselves for a successful future. Enjoy Reading.

Sarath Shyam

UNIVERSITY OF CALGARY

A Spirited and High-Quality Learning Environment

UTAH TECH UNIVERSITY

Where Affordability Meets Hands-on Learning and Career Readiness

YORKVILLE UNIVERSITY

Helping Students Succeed – in the Classroom and in their Careers

ACADEMIC VIEW

HIGHER EDUCATION IN HIGH GEAR: REVOLUTIONIZING THE FUTURE OF LEARNING AND TEACHING WITH METAVERSE

Dr. Muhammad Azmat, Assistant Professor in logistics and SCM, Aston University, UK 8

THE HUMANITIES IN THE AGE OF AI: A PROFESSOR’S REFLECTION

Jason J. Gulya, Professor, Berkeley College 32

INDUSTRY PERSPECTIVE

Akos Kiraly, Strategic Sales, SRH Higher Education 46

HOW THE LACK OF SKILLED PROFESSIONALS DRIVES THE RECRUITMENT OF INTERNATIONAL TO GERMANY

FIVE STRATEGIES FOR ASSIGNMENT WRITING FOR PART-TIME STUDENTS

Alexander Nowak, CEO and Founder, e2c 58

FUTURE-PROOFING YOUNG PEOPLE’S EDUCATION

Emer O’Donnell, Founder, TeenReconnect Ltd

ACADEMIC VIEW

Higher Education in High Gear: Revolutionizing the Future of Learning and Teaching with Metaverse

Dr. Muhammad Azmat, Assistant Professor in logistics and SCM, Aston University, UK

Dr. Muhammad Azmat is an esteemed Assistant Professor and Deputy Programme Director for the MSc Supply Chain Management and MSc Engineering Management programs at Aston University. He holds a Ph.D. in Transport, Logistics, and Supply Chain Management and MSc in Supply Chain Management from the Vienna University of Economics and Business Management. He is also a distinguished alumnus of the Oxford Leadership Programme, at the University of Oxford, and a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA).

The Covid-19 pandemic has been a catalyst for profound changes in the way we live, work, and learn. The widespread shift to virtual learning has revealed a vast array of opportunities for innovation and improvement in the field of education. One such innovation is the emergence of the metaverse as a platform for learning and

teaching. This article explores the potential of the metaverse for higher education and examines its possible implications for students and teachers.

The backdrop of Metaverse

The term “metaverse” was first popularized in Neal Stephenson’s 1992 science fiction novel “Snow Crash.” The concept of a shared virtual

The metaverse, an expansive virtual world that enables users to interact with each other and participate in various activities, has garnered interest as a potential platform for education

The technology and design of metaverse classrooms are still in their early stages, so the exact look and feel of a typical metaverse classroom are subject to change as technology advances

world has since evolved and gained traction in recent years with advancements in technology and the growing popularity of virtual and augmented reality. Facebook is one of the companies that is actively investing in the development of the metaverse. In 2014, Facebook acquired Oculus VR, a virtual reality company, with the goal of developing a metaverse platform for social and educational use. In 2018, Facebook introduced Facebook Horizon, a social metaverse that allows users to create, explore, and interact in virtual environments. Facebook has also expressed interest in using blockchain technology to create a decentralized metaverse, which would allow users to have more control over their data and assets in the virtual world. The metaverse, an expansive virtual world that enables users to interact with each other and participate in various activities, has garnered interest as a potential platform for education.

A classroom in Metaverse

A typical classroom in the metaverse would likely be a virtual environment designed to simulate a physical classroom. It could have elements such as virtual desks, chairs, and whiteboards for students to interact with. The teacher could give virtual lectures and students could raise their virtual hands to ask questions or participate in class discussions. Students might also have the option to use virtual avatars to represent themselves, complete with customization options for hair, skin, and clothing. Additionally, the metaverse classroom could incorporate immersive and interactive elements, such as virtual simulations, virtual field trips, and interactive lessons, to enhance the learning experience. The technology and design of metaverse classrooms are still in

their early stages, so the exact look and feel of a typical metaverse classroom are subject to change as technology advances.

Student Experiences in Metaverse

The scientists behind the technology are certain that Metaverse would allow for a more accessible and flexible learning environment. With an internet connection, students can participate in classes and lessons from anywhere worldwide. This eliminates the barriers of geography, illness, and disability, enabling more students to receive a quality education. Furthermore, students in the metaverse can form relationships with their peers from around the world, broadening their perspectives and providing a valuable learning opportunity. There are several potential positive student experiences in metaverse classrooms that could benefit overall learning and teaching experiences:

1. Increased Accessibility: Virtual learning in the metaverse could increase accessibility for students with disabilities or those who live in remote areas, allowing them to participate in classroom activities and discussions from anywhere.

2. Immersive Learning Experiences: Metaverse classrooms can offer immersive and interactive learning experiences through virtual simulations, virtual field trips, and other interactive activities.

3. Enhanced Collaboration: Metaverse classrooms could facilitate collaboration between students in real-time, regardless of their physical location, which can lead to more meaningful and diverse discussions.

4. Personalized Learning: The metaverse could provide a more personalized learning experience, as students can interact with virtual content at

their own pace and explore topics that interest them in greater depth.

5. Cost Savings: Virtual learning in the metaverse could reduce the cost of education, as students would not need to physically travel to a campus or purchase textbooks.

6. Greater Engagement: The immersive and interactive nature of metaverse classrooms can lead to greater engagement and motivation among students, which can enhance their overall learning experience.

While the metaverse is still in its early stages, the potential benefits of virtual learning in the metaverse highlight the exciting possibilities for the future of education.

Concerns over Metaverse Classrooms

Despite obvious benefits, some have raised concerns about the quality of education in the metaverse. For example, according to a study published in the Journal of Virtual Education, virtual environments may provide a different level of interaction and personal connection than physical classrooms, which may negatively affect the quality of learning and overall student experience by isolating them from the real world. However, this can be mitigated by using virtual reality technologies and other interactive features, such as virtual hand gestures and facial expressions, which can help foster a sense of connection and community among students and teachers.

Another concern is the impact of the metaverse on the on-campus experience. According to an article in The Chronicle of Higher Education, the on-campus experience is essential to a student’s education. It provides opportunities for growth and development that take more work to foster

By incorporating elements of the metaverse into physical classrooms, teachers can enhance the learning experience and provide students with a more dynamic and engaging educational experience

in virtual environments. However, it is important to note that the metaverse does not necessarily have to replace the on-campus experience; it can complement it. By incorporating elements of the metaverse into physical classrooms, teachers can enhance the learning experience and provide students with a more dynamic and engaging educational experience.

Metaverse and sustainability

The sustainability of higher education in the metaverse is an ongoing debate and discussion topic. On the one hand, virtual learning in the metaverse has the potential to reduce the carbon footprint of education by reducing the need for physical travel and cutting down on the use of paper and other resources. On the other hand, the energy consumption required to run the servers and data centers that support the metaverse could have a significant environmental impact, particularly if the demand for virtual education continues to grow. For example, a study published

in the journal “Nature Climate Change” found that the data centers and servers used for cloud computing, which is essential for the metaverse, already consume a significant amount of energy and emit large amounts of greenhouse gases. This highlights the need for the development of more sustainable and eco-friendly technologies to support virtual education in the metaverse.

Nonetheless, It is safe to say that the metaverse has enormous potential to revolutionize the future of learning and teaching. As the metaverse continues to evolve and improve, we must explore its potential and consider its implications for higher education. While there are valid concerns about the quality of education and the impact on the on-campus experience, the benefits of the metaverse for education cannot be ignored. By embracing this innovative technology, we can provide students with a unique and valuable learning experience that prepares them for the challenges and opportunities of the future.

Murdoch University, Australia

Location: Perth, Western Australia, Australia

Website:

https://www.murdoch.edu.au/

Key person: Professor Eeva Leinonen, Vice-Chancellor and President

Admission:

https://www.murdoch.edu.au/study

Sabanci University, Turkey

Location: Istanbul, Turkey

Website:

https://www.sabanciuniv.edu/en/

Key person: Prof. Dr. Yusuf Leblebici, President

Admission:

https://www.sabanciuniv.edu/en/future-students

Tec de Monterrey (ITESM), Mexico

Location: Multiple locations in Mexico

Website:

https://tec.mx/en

Key person: Salvador Alva, President

Admission:

https://tec.mx/en/admissions

University of Calgary, Canada

Location: Calgary, Alberta, Canada

Website:

https://www.ucalgary.ca/

Key person: Dr. Ed McCauley, President and Vice-Chancellor

Admission:

https://www.ucalgary.ca/future-students/ undergraduate/admissions

University of Applied Sciences Europe, Germany

Location: Berlin, Hamburg, and Iserlohn, Germany

Website:

Key person: Prof. Dr. Werner Ziegler, Chancellor

Admission:

University of Nicosia, Cyprus

Location: Nicosia, Cyprus

Website:

https://www.unic.ac.cy/ https://www.ue-germany.com/en/

https://www.unic.ac.cy/admissions/ https://www.ue-germany.com/en/admissions/

Key person: Dr. Kostas Gouliamos, Rector

Admission:

Utah Tech University, USA

Location: St. George, Utah, USA

Website:

Key person: Dr. Richard “Biff” Williams, President

Admission:

https://admissions.utahtech.edu/

Webster University Geneva, Switzerland

Location: Geneva, Switzerland

Website:

http://webster.ch/

Vesalius College, Belgium

Location: Brussels, Belgium

Website:

https://www.yorkvilleu.ca/ https://www.vesalius.edu/ https://utahtech.edu/

Key person: Dr. Clementina Acedo, Director and Campus Head

Admission:

https://www.webster.ch/admissions/

Key person: Dr. Joachim Koops, Dean

Admission:

https://www.vesalius.edu/admissions/

University, Canada

Location: Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada

Website:

Key person: Dr. Allyson Lowe, Provost and Executive Vice President

Admission:

https://www.yorkvilleu.ca/admissions/

Yorkville

Lead your institution through the new normal and beyond

Today’s learners and faculty have high expectations, requiring an integrated and exible learning experience that operates seamlessly and intuitively. By partnering with Blackboard, you can enhance your institution’s brand by providing students and faculty with a holistic and integrated modern learning ecosystem.

Blackboard brings together the technologies and services you need to lead your institution through this digital transformation.

EFFECTIVETEACHING

TECHNOLOGIES & LEARNINGAPPROACH RESULT INTEGRATED GLOBALBESTPRACTICES

MEASUREMENT

UNIVERSITY OF CALGARY

A Spirited and High - Quality Learning Environment

Founded in 1966, the University of Calgary (UCalgary) is a global intellectual hub in Canada’s most enterprising city. Students thrive in programs enriched by research, hands-on learning and entrepreneurial thinking.

“A can-do spirit and a sense of purposeful curiosity permeates everything we do,” says Dr. Ed McCauley, the university’s president and vice-chancellor. “We’re trailblazers at heart, innovators by necessity and community builders by nature because it’s in our DNA. We see potential in testing boundaries where others balk at challenges, and we know how to integrate diverse perspectives to create new breakthroughs.”

The University of Calgary is a global intellectual hub located in Canada’s most enterprising city. In this spirited, high-quality learning environment, students will thrive in programs made rich by research, handson experiences and entrepreneurial thinking.

Immersed in an environment that supports learning and discovery, students can reach and exceed their potential. Through experiential learning and transdisciplinary collaboration, students are encouraged to follow the university’s campaign and Start something.

Over the past decade, UCalgary has climbed global rankings and now sits among the toprated Canadian doctoral universities. It is currently ranked in the top 250 of more than 25,000 universities globally, putting it in an elite class. The university has also been ranked among Canada’s top 10 research universities, as well as the No. 1 sport-science school in North America, No. 3 for graduate student funding, and No. 4 for faculty funding among U15 research universities in Canada. Shanghai Ranking Academy also placed UCalgary No. 10 among sport-science schools globally.

At UCalgary, students, staff and faculty can not only advance their disciplinary expertise, but also experience the rewards of collaborating across fields to either solve important problems or create new artistic expressions.

For the second year in a row, UCalgary has maintained its No. 1 rank as the top startup creator among research universities in Canada (per the Association of University Technology Managers), reinforcing its reputation as Canada’s entrepreneurial university.

“The University of Calgary is a destination for those who are motivated to action and want to move their ideas toward implementation,” says McCauley. “By breaking down silos, fostering partnerships in research and focusing on problem-solving, UCalgary distinguishes itself as a place where you can truly Start something.”

Student Life on Campus

Based in northwest Calgary, the third mostliveable city in the world according to The Economist, with a view of the Rocky Mountains and an hour’s drive from Banff National Park, the University of Calgary offers an engaging student experience. Calgary is one of the safest major cities in Canada, while also serving as a national energy and innovation hub, with the most corporate head offices per capita in the country. Students have access to progressive and sustainable spaces to network and build creative collaborations. With the main campus minutes away from bustling downtown Calgary, UCalgary makes participating in local culture and community easily accessible.

UCalgary is also continuously investing in its campus experience through the construction and modification of buildings that enhance the student experience and positively impact the environment. Whether it’s the Taylor Institute for Teaching and Learning, Hunter Student Commons, or its newest addition, Mathison

Dr. Ed McCauley President and Vice-Chancellor

Hall, there is a place for every student to explore their passions. “In the past decade, we have enhanced our focus on student experience and seen dramatic increases in student satisfaction,” says McCauley.

As measured by the National Survey of Student Engagement (NSSE), UCalgary’s student satisfaction rate has steadily climbed over the past 10 years. Most recently, 78 per cent of first-year students rate their experience as good or excellent, three points above other top research universities. There has been a 25.2per cent increase in undergraduate degrees awarded annually (2017 – 2022) and 55 per cent more graduate degrees awarded annually (2017 – 2022).

The university saw higher engagement scores than other top research universities in nearly all categories. UCalgary also has a 94per cent postgraduation employment rate.

Furthermore, UCalgary also offers supports for international students, with social events to connect international and domestic peers; family programming to connect with relatives, including guidance for enrolling students’ children in local kindergarten-to-Grade 12 education; and an international adviser in the Student Success Centre to help students transition to a Canadian classroom environment or prepare their resumé or CVs for job applications. Additionally, immigration advisers are available to students needing assistance

UCalgary encourages a culture where each individual can live up to their potential to influence our actions, strive for excellence, and support the growth of others.

related to study, work permits, and visas for themselves and their families.

Unique Research Facilities Attract International Students

UCalgary’s numerous state-of-the-art research facilities and institutes are a big draw for students outside of Canada. “The University of Calgary advantage provides international students with hands-on learning, ample research opportunities, world-class laboratories and sustainable buildings for a modern learning experience,” says McCauley.

Among these facilities is the International Microbiome Centre (IMC), a germ-free, 10,000-sq.-ft. research space designed to explore the microbiome of humans, plants, animals and the physical environment. The IMC is unique in Canada, with the capacity to study the healing power of the microbiome on a transdisciplinary scale.

The Rothney Astrophysical Observatory (RAO) is one of the principal research facilities within the University of Calgary’s Department of Physics and Astronomy. As one of Canada’s best-equipped astronomical teaching facilities,

the RAO provides students with the opportunity to use research-grade telescopes, an integral part of the undergraduate astronomy curriculum. It also serves the community as a resource for science educators and as a catalyst for science education in Alberta.

UCalgary is home to the No. 1 sportscience school in North America and to the Olympic Oval, North America’s first covered speedskating rink, known as having The Fastest Ice in the World. In the Faculty of Kinesiology, students can study and advance in a range of sport-science research. And, as having one of Canada’s top athletic programs, it offers studentathletes world-class training, varsity sports and club sports.

Students and faculty across many disciplines benefit directly from access to a working ranch. The study of cattle in the complex, real-farm context will enable research that can improve management practices for ranchers, as well as academic programming that produces better veterinarians with more hands-on experience.

Programming Scholarships and Supports for International Students

Through UCalgary’s International Collaborative Programs, international students can now earn two degrees simultaneously — one from their university and another from UCalgary. The transition to UCalgary is facilitated by the university’s pre-arrival program that educates new students about the curricula and provides support during their studies. International

In 2018, J.C. (Jack) Anderson and his daughter, Wynne Chisholm, donated a working cattle ranch, W.A. Ranches, to the University of Calgary, fundamentally transforming education and research at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine (UCVM). The university operates the ranch for the purposes of teaching and learning, research, and community engagement.

student orientations and mentorship programs provide additional opportunities for students to connect with each other and with mentors. This helps build bonds that follow students throughout their academic programs and beyond.

Students and staff from more than 160 countries come to UCalgary to share ideas and perspectives. With its refreshed Global Engagement Plan, the university is focused on increasing the diversity of the campus community, improving global and intercultural capacity, and enhancing global partnerships. One of the ways UCalgary is activating this plan is by creating and investing in student awards and bursaries to reduce financial barriers and increase access to education.

The University of Calgary offers international students a range of highquality programs, exceptional paid work experiences through co-op and internship programs, and a multitude of opportunities to make a difference and contribute to a variety of research goals through its Undergraduate PURE award program.

Overall, UCalgary has CAD$175.3-million in awards available for students in financial need as of 2020-2021, a CAD$38-million increase since 2018. The university has also nearly tripled its Indigenous student awards since 2015, with more than CAD$3million disbursed in 2021-2022.

There are specific awards for international students, too, including an International Entrance Award for prospective international individuals coming directly from high school. CIBC also offers an International Entrance Award for incoming international high school students. Students entering professional undergraduate programs in medicine or law, for example, are eligible for entrance awards specific to their professional program. The Pathways to Medicine scholarship; Burnet, Duckworth & Palmer LLP Entrance Scholarship; or the Faculty

of Law Undergraduate Award of Excellence for Indigenous, Black and Racialized Persons are a few examples of awards offered.

Research at UCalgary Includes Entrepreneurial Training

In the past decade, UCalgary has climbed the national research rankings — leading to more community investment and more opportunities for its faculty and students. Since 2017, UCalgary research funding from the Canada Research Chairs program has

risen by 16 per cent, with a further 16-per cent increase in allotment announced in the most recent national distribution. UCalgary has been consistently ranked among Canada’s top research universities in sponsored-research income, including more than CAD$117.8-million in TriCouncil research funding in 2021, a 64-per cent increase from 2011. Additionally, funding from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research has more than doubled over the last 10 years.

Research excellence thrives at UCalgary. The number of scholarly publications at

UCalgary grew by 50 per cent between 2011 and 2021 and, can be credited to the institution’s entrepreneurial approach to research, which sparks bold health, energy and social innovations.

Researchers at the Cumming School of Medicine are collaborating globally to show how vaccines can be used to treat high-risk cancers in kids. In addition, a CAD$25-million gift from the Azrieli Foundation is driving neurodevelopmental research, improving the lives of kids, teens and adults.

UCalgary is advancing medical technology. Researchers in UCVM have developed a method for 3D-printing living tissue to treat diabetes. As well, a Calgary-based company has developed a new blood test for breast cancer based on UCalgary biomedical engineering research discoveries.

In addition, UCalgary’s New Earth-Space Technologies Research Strategy has been

paying dividends such as unprecedented advances in sensors, platforms and systems. Having flown scientific instruments on more than 20 space missions, and with instruments currently in orbit on four satellites, UCalgary is Canada’s most space-active university, building next-generation instruments to research Aurora Imaging riometers across a network in northern Canada as part of the international LAMP mission (Loss through Auroral Microburst Pulsations) led by NASA. Some equipment pioneered at UCalgary, such as a platform to grow heart organoids, was even used by NASA for a recent mission.

Encouraging Innovation, Creativity and Diversity in Students

From its Distinguished Writers Program to its School of Creative and Performing Arts, UCalgary encourages students to engage in

The reach of the University of Calgary extends across southern Alberta and beyond. Students and scholars – and the community at large – have access to a unique collection of facilities located in some of the most stunning landscapes on the planet.

and unleash their creativity. UCalgary has a multidisciplinary approach where diversity is a strength. UCalgary arts students are learning everything from speaking the vocabulary of ancient languages, mastering Earth-space technologies, and choreographing exquisite dance performances, to exploring ways to address climate change. UCalgary nursing and social work students are creating outreach support to help the homeless. Architecture students partner with The City of Calgary and business-improvement areas to make the downtown area safer and more engaging for everyone.

“We do critical and creative research that engages communities and fosters innovation, leadership and artistry,” says McCauley.

UCalgary’s Entrepreneurial Ecosystem

For two years running, UCalgary has been ranked the top startup creator among Canadian research institutions. According to the Association of University Technology Managers’ 2020 and 2021 rankings, the university leads in knowledge-transfer, from research to commercialization.

Over the past decade, the university increased its number of new inventions, disclosures and

patent applications by 75 per cent. Students, faculty and staff are trained to think like entrepreneurs, and UCalgary provides space for companies and startups to work alongside students and researchers.

By creating an innovation ecosystem that links groundbreaking research and community impact, UCalgary continually remains at the forefront of exciting new discoveries across many of its programs. From engineering and computer science to medicine, quantum science, arts, law and business, the university offers more than 250 programs for undergraduate and graduate students. Entrepreneurial thinking is embedded into programming, with a focus on

obtaining the most impactful results for the benefit of the community. Examples of this include the recently expanded Hunter Hub for Entrepreneurial Thinking. The program trains students, faculty, staff and the larger community in entrepreneurial thinking and innovation to effect positive change in the economy and transform ideas from conception toward impact. Innovate Calgary serves as a central innovation hub for UCalgary researchers to patent their discoveries in the first step towards commercialization. Research-intensive companies can access the university’s Life Sciences Innovation Hub to further

develop their commercially viable products and services.

To help these new ventures get started, UCalgary has developed UCeed, a unique seed-funding program to catalyze researchbased startups by providing bridge funding to new ventures looking to expand. In addition, graduate and postdoctoral scholars with innovative research ideas in the fields of agtech, energy evolution, health care and others have access to Creative Destruction Lab –Rockies (CDL-Rockies) through the Haskayne School of Business. With mentorship from world-renowned experts, students can grow their technologies into new businesses with key

support as part of this program, which led to a 154-per cent increase in the creation of startups between 2017 and 2022.

Programming that Looks to the Future while Building Impactful Partnerships

UCalgary is helping existing industries evolve through creative partnerships, such as the collaboration with tech giant, Mphasis. The goal is to build a new quantum computing sector in Alberta that will focus on nanotechnology and artificial intelligence, as well as quantum internet and biomedical engineering.

The new Quantum City hub will create approximately 500 to 1,000 jobs in the shortterm, and 26,000 jobs by 2040. More than 300 UCalgary scholars are also involved in energy research, partnering with governments and businesses to test new ideas (e.g., potential in blue hydrogen production), apply novel solutions and develop applications at scale (e.g., hydrogen from bitumen).

UCalgary continues to develop futurefocused academic programming to meet the needs of students now and into the future. “We’re incorporating choice and opportunity into higher education so UCalgary graduates can get employed, stay employed and employ people themselves,” says McCauley. “We elevate our learning platforms with practical career and volunteer experience and guide our students’ path with ample support and advice.”

UCalgary is where transformative research ignites life-changing global impact. It’s where leading minds connect to see a common vision come to fruition through transdisciplinary partnerships, true collaboration and mentorship. Here, bold ideas become movements. Here, you can Start something.

ACADEMIC VIEW

The Humanities in the Age of AI: A Professor’s Reflection

Jason J. Gulya, Professor, Berkeley College

Jason J. Gulya is a Professor of English at Berkeley College. He teaches onsite, online, hybrid, and accelerated courses on writing and the humanities. In 2020, he received Berkeley’s Faculty of the Year Award for Teaching Excellence. His writing is widely available. He has published articles in Literary Imagination, Pedagogy, Bunyan Studies, and many other journals. He has also written book chaptersforTheOxfordHandbookofAllegory(OxfordUniversityPress),AllegoryStudies(Routledge), and Adapting the Eighteenth Century (University of Rochester Press). He published his first book, Allegory in Enlightenment Britain: Literary Abominations, with Palgrave Macmillan in December 2022. Currently, he is researching the link between the “literary mind” and the future of work.

When OpenAI released ChatGPT on November 30, 2022, it helped start a movement. AI-assisted writing had been around for years. Now, it was in the public imagination.

Everyone started wondering:

● What can I do with my own virtual assistant?

● What projects can I finish now that I have been putting off for years?

● What does this mean for my job?

We know the small startup Anthropic will release Claude, which may be superior to ChatGPT. We know that Microsoft will likely purchase ChatGPT and retrofit it into its already-expansive software suite. Google will release its own version

Today’s college students are attending a time of great innovation. Technological advancements are far outpacing educational institutions

● How can I use ChatGPT to help with my college work?

● Will this replace me?

Behind these and more was a single question: what is humanity’s value proposition? To put this slightly differently, what do humans have to contribute when so many of their professional and personal outputs can be completed by machines? This question will define 2023 and beyond. The boundary between humans and machines is fading.

That boundary will blur even faster once more companies--new and established--enter the fray. HyperWrite, Word Tune, and Jasper are already worthy competitors. We also know that OpenAI will soon release a new version of its software. (Based on reports, it will be based on much more data than ChatGPT.) We know the small startup Anthropic will release Claude, which may be superior to ChatGPT. We know that Microsoft will likely purchase ChatGPT and retrofit it into its already-

expansive software suite. Google will release its own version.

The market is already teeming with options. More will come. As more options emerge, AI is going to improve exponentially. Machines are becoming more human. Science fiction does not feel like science fiction anymore.

Here is my prediction: the rise of AI will make the humanities indispensable. The defining question of the humanities is, what’s the human condition? Its secondary question is, how do humans deal with uncertainty? I cannot think of two more pressing questions right now.

Today’s college students are attending a time of great innovation. Technological advancements are far outpacing educational institutions. Only now are professors and colleges creating AI policies. By the time many colleges finish writing policies, AI will look different.

Now is a time of disruption. The uncertainty is invigorating. It’s also stressful. The only certainty is uncertainty. It’s time to put the humanities at the center of career-focused education. Learning how to think philosophically, write stories about human uncertainty, and close read a text with or without AI help equip students for the future.

College must analyze the past, remain grounded in the present, and prepare for the future. It’s not the time to dismiss Aristotle or Plato. It’s time to dig our heels in, slowing down and digging deep when the world asks us to skim. Why? Because these skills will allow students to stand out.

Standing out means participating in culture and the workforce while holding onto our authentic selves. We should adapt. But that doesn’t mean we need to confirm. We can

say the same for colleges. We cannot ignore ChatGPT and the movement of which it’s a part. We must evolve. But we should not simply follow Coursera, HubSpot, and other companies in our course offerings. We can stand apart by guiding our students as they tread lightly (and consider what treading lightly means) in a world dominated by AI.

My contention? The humanities prepare students for this world. Show me a philosopher, novelist, or filmmaker, and I’ll show you someone who wanted to contextualize the human condition. I’ll show you someone who used writing to tease out not merely who and what, but how and why.

The humanities teach how uncertain our world is. Our lives are dominated by ambiguity and between-a-hard-rock-and-ahard-place decisions. Read Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice and sympathize with Elizabeth’s plight as she chooses between independence and social alienation. Read Toni Morrison’s Beloved and face the haunting nature of slavery. Watch Christopher Nolan’s Inception and revel in a meaningful cliffhanger.

These stories, and the humanities more generally, ask us to grapple with an uncertain, ambiguous world where no actions are contained, and no details are insignificant. This is what modern society needs. Humans are hardwired to trust those booming with confidence. But here’s the thing. In this uncertain world, the best leaders are those who acknowledge that uncertainty. These are tricky and semi-unprecedented times. Follow those who embrace the humanities’ principles. These are the leaders we want in an uncertain world.

UTAH TECH UNIVERSITY

Where Affordability Meets Hands - on Learning and Career Readiness

Located in St. George, Utah Tech University has embedded innovation into every student’s learning experience through its “active learning. active life.” approach to education. As an open, inclusive, and comprehensive polytechnic university, Utah Tech is making the handson, career-preparing education synonymous with a polytechnic institution available to all students seeking an education. Dr. Richard “Biff” Williams, President of Utah Tech University, says,“Utah Tech is a comprehensive university that embraces polytechnic learning. We are truly unique because we are also committed to being open and inclusive.”

With programs in humanities, arts, education, health sciences, business, and STEM, Utah Tech University offers access to open educational resources

A UT education means active learning within all academic disciplines. Hands-on learning, industry partnerships, and a dynamic student-life experience prepare students for successful careers and meaningful lives.

Utah Tech, as an open institution, not only accepts all students with a high school diploma or equivalent certificate but also removes any obstacles that traditionally get in the way of students earning an education while making resources available to anyone who seeks them. Similarly, Utah Tech helps diverse individuals learn and succeed by offering a variety of inclusive teaching methods that resonate with all students.

Utah Tech’s human-centered approach to problem-solving prepares students studying all disciplines – humanities, arts, education, health sciences, business, and STEM — for successful careers and meaningful lives. Dr. Williams shares, “Our students learn through hands-on education and authentic industry experiences that cater to diverse abilities. They make, create, and innovate while gaining real-world active learning experiences through internships,

clinical experiences, undergraduate research, industry partnerships, and service learning.”

Offering Opportunities for Hands-on Learning

For example, Utah Tech’s Physical Therapist Assistant and Engineering students help area children with special needs become mobile by rewiring battery-operated cars through the university’s partnership with the Go Baby Go program. These cars function as power wheelchairs for kids too young for traditional wheelchairs and have been entirely dependent on others for mobility since birth. “Physical Therapist Assistant students assess the needs of each child while Engineering students build harnesses for supports and switches to replace the throttle for children who lack the motor control to use a gas pedal,” explains Dr. Williams. Similarly, students in majors across campus are creating and participating in virtual reality labs. In the virtual reality dental hygiene lab, students gain real-world experience by practicing X-ray procedures and practice using materials made to scale. Dr. Williams adds, “Our students not only learn from participating in virtual reality labs but also from designing them, as students in 3D design and computer and software development classes assist with creating these labs.”

Combining active learning and active life, biology students hike and go canyoneering through Southern Utah’s beautiful national parks, forests, mountains, and canyons to research the area’s tree frog population. Others scour the campus for lizards to study, while others venture into the desert to tag rare Bearclaw poppy plants.

Richard “Biff” Williams began his tenure as the 18th president of Utah Tech University in August 2014 and has overseen incredible growth ever since. Under his leadership, Utah Tech enhanced student resources and experiences, nearly doubling the amount of scholarship funds, instituting the “active learning. active life.” approach to education, increasing campus diversity, and transitioning Utah Tech Athletics to Division-I. Thanks to his leadership, millions of dollars have been invested in employee salary increases, and the institution has been consistently included in U.S. News & World Report’s Best Colleges rankings. Currently, Dr. Williams is guiding the University’s growth as an open,

OF UTAH TECH UNIVERSITY

inclusive, comprehensive polytechnic university that offers hands-on learning opportunities that prepare students to graduate career-ready. As part of this mission, Dr. Williams forms partnerships with industry leaders to inform curriculum and prepare graduates to meet workforce demands. Previously, he has served as the provost and a dean at Indiana State University and an associate dean, faculty member, and department chair at the University of Northern Iowa. He holds a bachelor’s in lifestyle management from Weber State University, a master’s in athletic training from Indiana State, and a doctorate in curriculum and instruction from New Mexico State University.

PRESIDENT

Dr. Richard “Biff” Williams

Creating an Entrepreneurial Mindset

Outside the classroom, Utah Tech’s students and community members can transform their ideas into products and viable businesses through the support and services offered by Atwood Innovation Plaza. Located right on the Utah Tech campus, this premier business development pipeline is a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship. Dr. Williams states, “Atwood Innovation Plaza’s unique, comprehensive approach to innovation has proven highly effective. The Plaza has vetted 767 innovations, submitted 195 patents and 104 trademarks and had 22 copyrights granted.”

Atwood Innovation Plaza offers an excellent platform for budding entrepreneurs to participate in free business consultations, receive support

and the training necessary to launch or grow their businesses, and even rent workspace as they are incubating their businesses. In the Plaza’s makerspace, creators build prototypes of their inventions, manufacture small runs of products, and participate in educational workshops to learn more about making the products of their dreams. “When they’re ready to patent their ideas, inventors can even receive assistance with researching their proof of concept and help to secure patents, trademarks, and copyrights. Finally, when it’s time to get their businesses up and running, owners can receive help at Atwood Innovation Plaza with problem validation, customer segmentation, unit economics, market-sizing, and competitive landscape mapping,” explains Dr. Williams.

Thanks in part to the Plaza’s work, the United States Patent and Trademark Office officially designated Utah Tech University Library as a Patent and Trademark Resource Center, enhancing entrepreneurs’ ability to file patents and get them granted.

In another innovative move to offer students tech training outside of the traditional classroom, Utah Tech has partnered with Pluralsight to make more than 7,000 self-paced technology programs available to the university community. Students in all areas of study can increase their technology-based skills and digital fluency, preparing them to incorporate the latest technology into everything they do. As part of the only partnership of its kind, professors can learn best practices and receive training through the Center of Excellence.

An Active Academic Life

“Rounding out the active learning experience, we also offer students the complete college experience through student life opportunities, Division I athletics, and cultural events. We have more than 80 active student clubs offering myriad opportunities to fully immerse in the “active learning. active life.” experience,” says Dr. Williams. Additionally, Utah Tech’s Campus Life and Wellness division takes advantage of the university’s beautiful location, set amid striking landscapes and national parks, and offers outdoor adventures and learning opportunities.

Academically, the university’s Academic Performance & Tutoring Center is available to students at no additional cost and provides services such as one-on-one tutoring and a

The International Students & Scholars Office at the Utah Tech University provides a welcoming environment that encourages a sense of belonging for our international students.

study hall, where they can work on homework and tutors are nearby for support as needed. Similarly, Utah Tech’s comprehensive Career Services offers students complimentary training and assistance as they prepare for their f uture careers.

Creating a Bright Future with a Solid Foundation

Utah Tech gained university status just a decade ago, having been a two-year and later a four-year college for a century. The institution has diligently worked to secure not only university status but also university stature, gaining recognition among students for its commitment to offering high-quality education at a great value. “We have added 165 programs since 2014 to more than 250 available options today. Furthermore,

our 2022 student population reflects a 50 percent increase in student enrollment in 2014,” shares Dr. Williams, who began his tenure as the 18th president of Utah Tech University in August 2014 and has overseen incredible growth ever since.

To meet the needs of the growing student body, Utah Tech has added two student-housing facilities, a human performance center, and a science, engineering, and technology building since 2014, increasing facility square footage

on campus by 39 percent. Additionally, a third student-housing facility and general classroom building will be underway soon. “We also plan to continue adding academic programs at the bachelor’s and master’s degree levels and new doctoral programs in the upcoming years. With a long-term commitment to an active education emphasizing career preparation, we are equipped to prepare graduates to meet industry demand in all fields for generations to come,” concludes Dr. Williams.

INDUSTRY

PERSPECTIVE

How the Lack of Skilled Professionals Drives the Recruitment of International to Germany

Akos Kiraly, Strategic Sales, SRH Higher Education

Germany, like many other countries, faces a shortage of skilled professionals in certain sectors. This shortage is driven by a variety of factors, including an aging population, declining birth rates, and a mismatch between the skills of the domestic workforce and the needs of the labor market.

To address this shortage, the German government has implemented a number of policies aimed at attracting skilled professionals from non-EU countries. These policies include:

● The Blue Card: The Blue Card is a work permit that allows skilled professionals from nonEU countries to work and live in Germany for up to four years. To qualify for the Blue Card, applicants must have a university degree or equivalent qualification, a job offer that pays at least €55,200 per year (as of 2021), and German language skills.

● Job Seeker Visa: This visa allows foreign job seekers to enter Germany for a period of up to six months to search for employment.

Germany, the UK, USA, and Canada all offer various stay-back options for international students after they complete their studies. However, the specifics of these options vary between countries

Akos Kiraly is a higher education marketing specialist with 10+ years of experience. Akos grew up in Hungary and came as an international student to Germany. He started his career in Germany with one of the leading German university agencies before he switched to the education provider side. Akos has been previously working as Director of Student Recruitment at GISMA Business School and has successfully implemented an international student recruitment strategy for SRH Berlin University of Applied Science(SRHHochschuleBerlin).

Akos joined Lancaster University Leipzig in September 2019. Currently, he is responsible for the sales strategy of SRH Universities in Germany and the Netherlands.

During this time, they are allowed to attend job interviews and explore the German job market.

● Recognition of foreign qualifications:

Germany has streamlined the process for recognizing foreign qualifications in certain professions, making it easier for skilled professionals from other countries to work in Germany.

How does it compare between Germany’s key competitors?

Germany, the UK, USA, and Canada all offer various stay-back options for international students after they complete their studies. However, the specifics of these options vary between countries.

Germany:

International students in Germany can apply for an 18-month residence permit called the Jobseeker Visa, which allows them to search for a job related to their field of study. If they find a job that is related to their degree, they can then apply for a work permit. Alternatively, students can apply for a residence permit for self-employment, allowing them to start their own businesses in Germany.

UK:

In the UK, international students can apply for the Graduate Route visa, which allows them to stay and work in the UK for two years after completing a degree at a UK university. If they find a job related to their degree during this time, they can then switch to a work visa.

USA:

International students in the US can apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) after completing their degree. OPT allows students to work in the US for up to 12 months in a job related to their field of study. If they graduate with a degree in a STEM field, they can apply for an extension of up to 24 months.

Canada:

International students in Canada can apply for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) after completing their degree. The length of the PGWP depends on the length of the student’s program of study, up to a maximum of three years. Students can work in any job in Canada during this time, regardless of whether it is related to their field of study.

In comparison, Germany offers a longer stayback period for job search compared to other

The recruitment of international students to Germany has many benefits. It helps fill critical skill gaps in the labor market, contributes to economic growth, and enhances cultural diversity

countries, but the UK offers the shortest period. The US offers a shorter initial OPT period, but STEM graduates can extend their work permits for a longer duration. Canada has a longer PGWP duration than the US, but it is tied to the length of the program of study. Ultimately, the choice of where to study and work will depend on individual circumstances and preferences.

A push for student recruitment

The recruitment of international students to Germany has many benefits. It helps fill critical skill gaps in the labor market, contributes to economic growth, and enhances cultural diversity. However, it is important to ensure that these international students are treated fairly and given the same opportunities as domestic workers.

There are several reasons why studying in Germany can be now even more attractive option for international students:

● High-quality education: Germany is home to many world-renowned universities that offer high-quality education. German universities are known for their academic excellence, cutting-edge research, and a strong emphasis on practical training.

● Affordable education: Compared to many other countries, the cost of studying in Germany is relatively low. Many public universities in Germany do not charge tuition fees, and even private universities have lower tuition fees compared to other countries

● Wide range of study programs: Germany offers a wide range of study programs, from traditional academic disciplines to vocational training. Students can choose from over 20,000 degree programs taught in English and German.

● Excellent job prospects: Germany is known for its strong economy and low unemployment

rate, making it an attractive destination for international students looking to start their careers after graduation. Many German companies are also actively recruiting international graduates, particularly in fields such as engineering, technology, and science.

● Cultural and linguistic diversity: Germany is a culturally diverse country with a rich history and a vibrant arts scene. It is also a hub for international students from around the world, offering a unique opportunity to meet people from different cultures and learn new languages.

● International student-friendly: Germany is known for its welcoming and inclusive culture, and it is a popular destination for international students. The German government also offers a range of support services and programs for international students, making the transition to studying and living in Germany easier.

To earn a German university degree in Germany is a solid basis for a career in Germany. The time spent at a German university helps students to gain key competencies that will be needed for finding a job as well as building a life in Germany. Universities help students to fully understand how the German job market works, the relevance of a professional network as well as social & language competencies. Although migration has gotten more accessible for skilled professionals, I fully believe that studying at a German university offers the strongest basis for a successful career in Germany.

German universities benefit from the lack of skilled professionals by offering a “complete package” with a world-class, often English-taught degree, internship and career opportunities, low tuition fees, and an open and welcoming society in the heart of Europe.

YORKVILLE UNIVERSITY

Helping Students Succeed – in the Classroom

and in their

Careers

Yorkville University is a different kind of university; students choose Yorkville because they’re looking for a more flexible, accelerated, and accessible take on the traditional university experience.

Since its establishment in Fredericton, New Brunswick in 2004, Yorkville University (YU) – Canada’s largest private university – has helped learners of all ages and backgrounds make the progress they want in their lives with rigorous, innovative, and flexible programs designed around their needs first.

“We believe you should be able to pursue your personal and professional goals without putting your life on hold, even if you’re a newcomer to Canada, a parent, a full-time professional, or a mature student,” said Dr. Allyson Lowe, Provost and Executive Vice President of YU.

YU is Canada’s largest private university – helping learners of all ages and backgrounds make the progress they want in their lives

Now operating out of two additional campuses – one in Toronto, Ontario and the other in Vancouver, B.C. – YU offers online and on-campus degree programs at the undergraduate, graduate and doctorate levels, as well as a pair of graduate certificates, and an ESL Pathway program.

Industry-Informed Undergraduate Studies

At the undergraduate level, YU currently offers three different programs – including a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) degree, which can be taken on-campus or online, with specializations

in Accounting, Energy Management, Project Management, Supply Chain Management and a General BBA (Online). The university also offers Bachelor of Interior Design and Bachelor of Creative Arts programs (both of which are offered on-campus or online).

Leaders in Graduate Education

As leaders in graduate education in Canada, YU provides degrees in purpose-driven areas: counselling psychology, educational leadership and adult education (all of which are offered online only).

YU helps international students prepare for professional opportunities that match their ambitions

For those passionate about making a contribution to the country’s growing mental health and wellness industry, YU offers a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology (MACP), as well as a Doctor of Counselling and Psychotherapy (DCP).

YU also provides two Master of Education (MEd) degrees. The Educational Leadership program is for those seeking leadership roles in the K-12 school system, or within public, private, and not-for profit organizations.

The MEd in Adult Education is for those aiming to develop mastery of teaching adult learners in a variety of contexts, including the public service, colleges, health sciences, and corporations.

All YU programs, including their Graduate Certificates in Education in Leadership in Social Justice and Education in Teaching and Learning, bridge theory and practice, support professional career progression and make a positive impact on society.

Dr. Allyson Lowe

PROVOST AND EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT

Yorkville University Provost and Executive Vice President Allyson Lowe, Ph.D. is a seasoned professor who has spent more than 20 years in higher education, during which time she has served in a number of different academic leadership roles. As Yorkville University’s Chief Academic Officer, her work is focused on improving learner outcomes, new program development, grants and external funding, and community/employer partnerships.

Accelerated, Flexible Options Help Students Achieve Their Goals Faster

YU knows its students lead full and busy lives, and that they’re eager to pursue their passions. That’s why the university’s programs offer year-round study options, multiple start dates throughout the year and optimum credit transfers based on students’ previous learning.

For example, YU’s on-campus Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) program,

offered out of YU’s Toronto, Ontario and Vancouver, B.C. campuses, starts in January, April, July and October. While the Toronto Campus offers a BBA in Project Management, the Vancouver Campus’s BBA offerings span specializations in Project Management, Accounting, Energy Management, and Supply Chain Management. These industryrecognized and accelerated business programs can be completed in as few as two-and-a-half years, versus the typical four years of study.

Meanwhile, YU’s fully online, asynchronous graduate and certificate programs empower learners to transcend geographical limits. In fact, last year YU graduated students from every province and territory in Canada. Students living in both urban and remote settings benefit from accessible programming that defies geographical limits. Students connect with course material and peers, without leaving their home and community, and at times that best suit their schedule.

Rigorous, Industry-Informed Curriculum

The value of a Yorkville education begins on the first day of class. Students learn concepts and skills they can apply right away, in small classes, with professors who have real experience with what they’re teaching. For example, the BBA arms

YU’s programs offer year-round study options, multiple start dates throughout the year and optimum credit transfers based on students’ previous learning

students with an actionable business plan, careerready skills and certification prerequisites required to launch their careers and succeed in the global market.

YU’s on-campus Bachelor of Interior Design program is offered out of the Toronto, Ontario Campus and can be completed in as few as three years. Through a mix of in-class theory, immersive studio experience and industry internships, the Interior Design degree equips students with the broad technical skills, welldeveloped visual literacy, and creative problemsolving skills required to become a registered and successful interior designer.

The university’s on-campus Bachelor of Creative Arts (BCA) program is also offered out of the Toronto, Ontario Campus and can be completed in two years. Students in this program are mentored by awardwinning and active industry professionals as they unite their creative talents with the practical industry skills required to successfully take up entrepreneurial opportunities in the creative arts.

Crossing the Borders of Education

YU helps international students prepare for professional opportunities that match their ambitions. Since 2017, the university has welcomed students from over 140 countries to the campus. With accelerated industry-based degrees, flexible learning schedules, dedicated career services teams and campuses in Toronto and Vancouver, YU breaks the conventional mold of post-secondary education in Canada by providing students with the flexibility that does not always typically exist with traditional public universities.

In 2022 alone, YU welcomed students from 78 different countries to its campus.

“Whether you study on campus in Vancouver or Toronto, our small class sizes, vibrant international student community and friendly student services team help you feel comfortable in your new environment. Our campuses are located in two highly multicultural and vibrant cities, with diverse opportunities for international students to experience Canada,” said Dr. Lowe.

When considering costs, Yorkville provides one of the more affordable international tuition fees in Canada. For citizens from the United States or Mexico, YU honours the United StatesMexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), meaning these international students can pay the domestic tuition rate for YU programs. Yorkville also offers annual bursaries specific to certain programs or regions where a student is applying.

Additionally, international students who continuously study full-time on campus for most of their studies may be eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), valid for up to three years.

Engaging and Preparing Students

YU has dedicated Student Life teams at both the Ontario and B.C. campuses, encouraging students to connect with one another, engage in fun activities, and experience all Canada has to offer. Student activities including sports, clubs, talent shows, and field trips keep learners engaged in their peer community. For online students, there are also many supports available to them in digital formats.

Meanwhile, YU’s Career Services team offers curated resources and webinars for

students. This team works to help students explore career options, prepare to find a fulfilling job, and develop the necessary skills to manage career progression.

Live and Learn

YU welcomes students from all different life stages, backgrounds and parts of the world. They help each learner pursue their individual goals, whatever they may be. YU recognizes and celebrates the potential in all people, with a firm commitment to equity in education. This university helps students make education a part of life, not a way of life, with programs designed to work with their lifestyles so they don’t need to put their careers, their families, or their dreams on hold to make progress.

INDUSTRY PERSPECTIVE

Five Strategies for Assignment Writing for Part-time Students

Alexander Nowak, CEO and Founder, e2c

Life as a part-time student is about balance, with a full-time job and family duties locked into a tug-of-war with academic responsibilities without respite; this is hardly breaking news.

Critical to keeping those scales in balance will be sticking to the principles of successful project management from falling into the trappings of a wholly different PM: panic management.

Mixing imbalanced resource allocation and faulty forecasting, a lack of contingency planning, and an over-reliance on past

techniques, it is any surprise projects fail so often? Thankfully the scale is nowhere near as impactful as a multimillion-dollar project. Nevertheless, purpose-driven professionals pursuing part-time studies are aiming for more than just a grade; they seek meaningful, applicable learning; failure is not an option.

Schedule: a mapped plan with buffers

All-nighters as an undergrad are parred for the course and can become legendary tales of earned badges of honor. All-nighters for a mature student, however, are abject nightmares.

Charting a course that allows for surprises is critical to keeping on track and managing challenges. That includes long-term deadline setting and short-term session planning

Alexander Nowak is a higher education specialist and CEO/ Founderofe2c(empoweringeducation consulting, inc.). He assists universities andcollegesinrecruitment,retention,and program delivery mandates that embody student empowerment. Academically, he is completing an MSc in Major Programme Management at Saïd Business School at the University of Oxford. He also completed an MBA (HEC Montréal) and double BAs (Political Science Honours & Psychology Major, Concordia University) and. Professionally, he has extensive marketing, strategy, and project management experience across enterprise and entrepreneurial settings, as well as years of program management and advising roles at McGillUniversity.AnativeCanadian, his exhaustive work and volunteer experience has taken him from India to Vietnam to Mexico, and now the UK, with many stops in between. A staunch believer in education as a driver of transformational change, he espouses an ethos around empowerment, equity, and empathy.

It is crucial not to back-load work at any point in any course. Charting a course that allows for surprises is critical to keeping on track and managing challenges. That includes long-term deadline setting and short-term session planning.

Particularly for one’s first part-time professional return to studies, re-evaluating those wonderful days of undergraduate studies with a critical eye is called for. It’s easy to fall into reminiscing over the excitement and wonder of learning and ignore the hours spent editing for mistakes and clarity, bibliography formatting, and figure, fact, and quote hunting that is perennially under-planned for.

Tech and admin: not to be ignored

Putting aside disasters like WIFI going dark or a hard drive crash in the lead-up to the submission deadline, establishing a fool-proof technical setup is as important as any strategy.

Regardless of the institution, a wealth of resources and tools are at one’s disposal; these alone can be worth the price of admission. Being a post-grad scholar also bears the highest of standards in excellence and rigor; it’s part of what makes the return to college or university so fulfilling.

Making use of these requires a significant userdriven commitment. Platform logins, plagiarism tools, and guides, formatting rules… everything from metadata removal to word counts requires the strictest attention to detail and can significantly contribute to panic management if not attended to.

With increasing security and IT demands across institutions, there’s no excuse to let a lastminute 2FA failure keep one from clearing these hurdles… and few institutions will accept such as a valid reason for a late submission.

Workstation: a critical enabler

Post-pandemic, many homework stations are close to optimized. Screen placement, desk, and chair combination, and peripherals aplenty; all contribute to a productive work environment.

Commonly heard tips from students drive home the importance of having a supportive chair, an adequately sized desk, good lighting, and a hassle-free tech set-up. Small touches like a great desk plant can help, as well.

Critical to recognize is that working in academic mode is surprisingly different from professional mode. Video calls take a back seat to paper scattering and study devices. It’s a very different type of work, and thinking, involved in assignment writing and it requires corresponding tweaks to one’s setup. Mock run-throughs, like the stress test, are a worthwhile exercise.

It’s true that after significant investment in your setup, there may be a need to put in some more, but foregoing those necessary tweaks is selling oneself short; which is hardly the mentality espoused by an ambitious professional student.

Notes: recording and revisiting

Study styles are highly personalized and constantly evolving to maximize learning outcomes. Leveraging past study techniques is a great starting point for academic success but preparedness to adopt new, unfamiliar tactics will be called for.

Some adopt handwriting of notes alongside reading strategy. Not only has been proven to be significantly more effective than typing, but it also reduces screen time and minimizes distractions, enabling one to work longer and more effectively.

Putting aside disasters like WIFI going dark or a hard drive crash in the lead-up to the submission deadline, establishing a foolproof technical setup is as important as any strategy

It also allows for a more natural recollection of key points from class discussions and materials.

However, a purely hand-written approach does come at the cost of retrieval functionality. With a wealth of material to draw upon, sifting through reams of paper to find supporting evidence or past insights can become an impediment, particularly in the waning days of writing.

Regardless of the method employed, virtually everyone runs out of time to incorporate every great insight and supporting point collected throughout the course. Finding the optimal mix of these techniques as quickly as possible will have compounding benefits. One shortcut to reaping these is conducting a strong stress test in the early weeks of study.

Self-care: prioritized and planned for it

If the pandemic brought one permanent positive change it’s the emphasis on our collective mental health. Along with proper task and time management, self-care management must be equally and regularly attended to.

Study sessions with colleagues are fantastic; they can inspire both idea creation as well as

motivation. Group chats are invaluable; they can serve as an outlet for comfort and reassurance as much as a lightning-fast source for an answer to a question.

Screen breaks are non-negotiable; they can double or triple your productivity for hours with just 15 minutes of investment. Earned indulgences are to be savored; that chocolate or espresso tastes ever sweeter and can keep one’s sanity in check.

Whatever works as a pick-up, a reward, or a source of calm during these times, it is wise to put aside rationalizations and judgment and allow those small pleasures to grant the benefits they promise.

From lessons learned to lessons applied

The first assignment in a return to studies will come with expected regret, mistakes, and sub-optimal tactics. Learning and letting go in fair order will be critical to getting a jump on subsequent works.

With a few project management principles put into practice, part-time students can avoid the trappings of managing panic instead of production and yield a programme long plan for success.

INDUSTRY

PERSPECTIVE

Future-proofing Young people’s Education

Emer O’Donnell, Founder, TeenReconnect Ltd

Sir Ken Robinson, the late international educationalist, said not necessarily in this order, ‘Life is energy, we are energy and when there is no energy in a body it is dead’. It got me thinking about the quality of energy our educational systems now bring into students’ daily lives, remembering they spend a lot of time in these systems and we eventually become what we hang out with. Do they truly serve and equip young people with the skills to be able to venture out as self-aware, confident individuals into our

multicultural modern world with a sense of passion and purpose, able to make their way?

Or…

Is it now too much about filling up a pale approach?

This is where their minds feel overwhelmed with too much data, that doesn’t serve beyond the educational gates, adding to their already existing overload from various other avenues. This is what has changed over the generations. Young people genuinely struggle to focus, process and filter out large volumes of data and distracting information

Young people genuinely struggle to focus, process and filter out large volumes of data and distracting information they are exposed to now even before they set foot in their classroom

Emer O’Donnell is the founder of TeenReconnect and the creator of Q Pathfinder.Asacoachwithabackground in psychology, she understands what successful people do differently to achieve well-being and performance. Her mission is to bring that learning into the world of education so young people can transform their lives, find their purpose, and thrive in our modern, stressful world. She combines four factors to achieve this outcome – Science, Psychology, Coaching and the 7Q Fast Track TeenReconnect Formula.

they are exposed to now even before they set foot in their classroom. Life is more complicated even with simple things. e.g., Today up to eighteen different coffee drink choices are creating so many possibilities to consider in one basic transaction

continually changing and evolving. When you don’t know who you are, or your natural talents and skills it is a big ask to process. Our brains haven’t evolved to keep up with our more complex world. It all gets exhausting, and easy to start to feel lost without the skills to manage.

Is it keeping them stuck in limited thinking styles?

This influences our choices of feelings and emotions if chosen wisely will give us a sense of connection and wholeness rather than feeling separate from others

alone. When I was a student, it was just one! This requires more brain energy, to make that one decision and this model can be extended out to so many other areas of life too. Think of over twenty thousand different types of job choices,

This is where reason and logic can be the main value players, creating a limited growth and expansive mindset. A known answer is usually required and if a student gets it wrong, they fail. This can impact confidence and a willingness to try again if they are struggling to understand. It may also just make them hold back or play safe next time. Collaboration is not always encouraged either even though we know the combined intelligence of a diverse group is higher than any one individual. If they do get things right, they can think they have nailed it so no more effort is required. There could be countless other variations of answers if explored that would add enormous value if these skills were applied in the real world of work across various disciplines. With progressive companies, it is less about perfectionism and more about exploring, developing, creating and continually moving forward the learning in a collaborative, trusted environment. These are the innovative, successful companies, that can adapt and change but this is not often the modelled environment found in education.

Is the content relevant to their lives, igniting a fire and a thirst for learning?

It could deliver more. If there is one thing, I have learned through my work it is that young people

are primed for learning. Most want and are very open to learning and understanding more about themselves and others. Many problems that occur on the planet stem from poor communication so why wouldn’t you feed that skill earlier and properly from the disciplines of behaviour change science, psychology and coaching? They want to know how to manage their emotions and behaviour better. They want to find their purpose, achieve goals, shine and know where they fit in the world. They want to access better decision-making and navigate future paths. They want to know how to handle the anxiety, stress and uncertainty they can feel on that journey. They really want connection. They want friends and adults in their lives they can trust and speak to about things that matter to them, without feeling they need to put on a painted mask pretending to be someone else. The fear of rejection, judgement or ridicule is huge as is the power of social media to magnify negative outcomes for them in a second if someone is minded to action this. However, they often don’t know how to create these connections or articulate what they need and want, with the courage to be their authentic selves. Covid has not helped. They struggle more without their devices as props. As a result, loneliness is skyrocketing, and suicide is the 3rd biggest killer of 15 to 25-year-olds.

Are they being empowered to connect to

their heart’s intelligence?

This influences our choices of feelings and emotions if chosen wisely will give us a sense of connection and wholeness rather than feeling separate from others. It also guides decisionmaking, awareness of self and where one fits in the world. With this intelligence, they can access a superpower of higher vibrational emotions such as

courage, love, and joy when faced with uncertainty and the unknown. These make students feel way better than negative emotions and support the development of more open, productive creative behaviours and thinking to be able to solve life’s problems and challenges. Knowing that both our minds and hearts are separate systems within the body but when the rhythm of each can work in tandem empowering us to calm our minds from all the external noise, fears, and stresses of modern life, it is crazy not to be learning about how to harness this in education.

So, what is to be done?

Education needs to adapt to keep pace with the rapidly evolving world we now live in, to prepare students for the future and equip them with the skills and psychological mindsets they need to succeed. We need new educational programmes to deliver this. From my work, I know so many young people crave these inner foundations of knowledge, but they simply don’t get enough of it to empower them to live a life they would love in our psychologically demanding world. The irony is that the educational system is designed to push for performance but is not achievable in the longer term if well-being isn’t present. An inability to manage ongoing stress and anxiety will dampen the learning and performance fire too. Students need to know who they are to be able to navigate this well.

Then on a much more basic level let’s consider what skills employers place a premium value on. It is the soft skills. These are non-technical skills related to who you are and how you are naturally predisposed to behave. Employers love them because they are essential for success in the workplace. Here are some of the reasons why:

Good communication skills enable employees to articulate their ideas and collaborate with others, leading to better decisionmaking and higher productivity

Good communication skills enable employees to articulate their ideas and collaborate with others, leading to better decision-making and higher productivity.

Effective teamwork uses soft skills such as cooperation, solving conflicts, and empathy to build and maintain positive relationships with coworkers and customers.

The ability to adapt to change and become more comfortable with the unknown, learning how to cope with stress and anxiety, learn new things, and work in diverse environments is increasingly important in a rapidly evolving job market.

Problem-solving soft skills like creativity, critical thinking and decision-making are vital for solving complex problems in the workplace.

Time management skills where there is an ability to prioritise tasks, meet deadlines and work on your own and with others are highly valued by employers as it ensures projects are delivered on time.

A growth mindset means the ability to be more likely to embrace challenges, persist in the face of setbacks, and continuously seek out opportunities to learn and grow. It makes

individuals more resilient, open-minded, and proactive in the face of change and challenges, e.g., naturally seeking to develop themselves, and continuously acquiring new skills. It is highly valued by employers in a job market that is rapidly changing where they need their workforce to be able to adapt to these changes.

When you hear stories however of youth death threats and bullying online, of stabbings, of teenage school shootings plus a recent story of girls as young as 11 years old, setting upon other teenagers of a different ethnic group where they are dragged around by their hair and repeatedly kicked in the head, one being beaten by three people at once, you know there is a real empathy and soft skill disconnect in our society. We need educational programmes that provide what are teachable skills to empower young people to reconnect in a meaningful way. Starting with building personalised self-awareness, young people can learn what makes them and others tick to find common ground. It is pure gold as with the right tools it supports the ability to build positive relationships, confidence, new skills and self-esteem. These are all essential ingredients for thriving in our future world and surely this is a key foundation stone of what education should be all about.