Book Club Session 5 - Meeting Summary by Zoom AI Companion
Meeting Summary for UCI Compass Community of Practice Book Club - Session Five (featuring Michael Dennin)
Aug 06, 2024 08:51 AM Pacific Time (US and Canada) ID: 940 4115 0477
Quick recap
The team discussed the concept of 'structural disruption' in higher education, focusing on the role of technology, certification, and critical thinking in the learning process. They proposed flexible, personalized programs that allow students to tailor their learning experience, and the integration of credentialing processes with residential education. The discussion also touched on the shift towards a credentialing model in medical education, the need to prevent the digital divide, and the importance of making content relevant and engaging for students.
Next steps
Faculty to consider ways to better integrate research experiences with undergraduate teaching.
Instructional designers to explore how to adapt online learning for diverse student populations.
UCI to continue examining how to restructure curriculum and credentialing to better serve student needs.
Summary
Structural Disruption in Higher Education
Michael and UCI discussed the concept of 'structural disruption' in the context of higher education. Michael emphasized the importance of data in raising questions that motivate change, while UCI announced upcoming sessions and the release of GPS Maps track 2. The main focus of the session was on chapters 9 through 11, with Michael sharing his thoughts on the scarcity of instruction, accessibility, and certification in academia. He argued that the current grading system perpetuates a false scarcity, akin to a hospital only treating patients who are most likely to recover.
Technology, Education, and the Future of Universities
Michael stressed the importance of universities teaching students how to learn, be creative, and think critically, especially in the face of technological changes. He discussed the impact of technology on education, highlighting that while it has improved significantly, the certification aspect remains a challenge. The concept of 'structural disruption' was also discussed, with Michael agreeing that academia is undergoing significant changes due to technological advancements. Patrick emphasized the value of AI in personalized learning paths and information delivery, but also highlighted the need for instructors to maintain their role in critical thinking and assessment. Michael concurred, suggesting that technology should be used to enhance, not replace, the role of instructors.
Rethinking University Education With Technology
Michael stressed the need for universities to rethink their educational approach in response to rising costs and changing job market demands. He suggested that universities should focus on their core value of facilitating learning, rather than providing a traditional residential university experience. The team discussed the potential of technology to enhance the learning experience and reduce costs, with Rikke proposing the integration of the credentialing process with the first two years of residential education. Michael agreed with this idea and further proposed the use of technology for more efficient and accurate assessment of student mastery through specifications grading.
University Programs and Curriculum Reforms
Michael emphasized the role of the university as a facilitator of learning, proposing a flexible, two to four-year program that allows students to tailor their learning experience to their needs and interests. Rikke agreed, highlighting the value of a practical internship and the importance of social connections for future employment. Patrick added to this by proposing a reversed curriculum in engineering, starting with a capstone project that would guide students' learning of foundational knowledge. Both highlighted the need for interdisciplinary approaches to training, given the increasingly divided nature of institutions, and the importance of making classes more relevant to students.
Credentialing Model in Medical Education
Rikke initiated a discussion about the shift towards a credentialing model in medical education, which seemed to contradict the trend towards a more entrustable model. Michael and UCI sought input from the group, particularly those with teaching experience, on the potential benefits of this shift. Michael emphasized the importance of not losing the efficient aspects of the current model, such as lectures for transmitting key information, while also highlighting the limitations of self-discovery learning. Tawana raised concerns about the digital divide and the need to prevent it from worsening, especially at the university level. The discussion was set to continue with further topics related to K-12 education.