Many people today view higher education as the next anticipated step in the schooling process. However, what does it truly offer? Our society, particularly the modern-day workforce, is undergoing a significant shift. It continually generates new jobs, and the skills needed to enter the job market differ from those required merely a decade ago. But is higher education adapting to meet the changing demand?
Read through the blog post to find out the ways in which higher education is failing students, how it can meet today's demands, and what BGA is doing already to help bridge those gaps.
The failings of current higher education
Research and recent studies highlight that there are several important pain points and challenges within higher education that should be addressed:
Mismatch between desired jobs and available jobs
One of the first pain points detailed in recent studies is that there is often a disconnect between the skills and qualifications students acquire during their education versus the skills demanded by the job market. This mismatch can lead to underemployment or unemployment for graduates, and dissatisfaction with their career paths. To address this, research suggests that there needs to be a closer alignment between higher educational programs and
industry needs. Incorporating more practical, job-oriented training, internships, and collaborations with employers can help bridge this gap.
How BGA can help
BGA is consistently working to appoint such practical solutions by incorporating big business requirements into Learners’ secondary education paths. Microsoft, for example, rather than dredging through graduates with mismatched skills, offer their skill requirements for specific positions in advance by giving students the opportunity to meet those demands and become a suitable candidate.
During their time at BGA, Learners can apply themselves to achieve said requirements and be role-ready at the end of their academic education. A far more practical method for education-to-job success.
We encourage Learners to pinpoint their future goals, then undertake internships, scholarships, or work experience within their prospective field. This experience helps them gain a better understanding and develop realistic expectations of the requirements for their chosen endeavours. The BGA team constantly collaborates and forms exclusive partnerships to ensure our Learners have access to the best opportunities.
Unpredictable future job requirements
The rapid advancement of tech and evolving industries make it challenging to predict the specific skills that will be in demand in the future, as Sir Ken Robinson states in his TED talk. However, it is evident that kids will need a broader range of skills beyond the traditional academic curriculum. Critical thinking, problem-solving, adaptability, creativity, and digital literacy are becoming increasingly crucial. Higher education institutions should prioritise the development of these transferable skills to ensure graduates are prepared for a rapidly changing job market.
BGA Solution
This is precisely the ethos behind BGA. We aim to give Learners the full gambit of skills, that they can apply when opportunity presents itself. How does BGA achieve this? By providing a three-pillared approach to secondary education, embodying community, knowledge, and skills. This model enables Learners to think for themselves, make their own choices, and focus on what they feel is important for their future.
Higher education should be a student’s stepping stone from academic to their professional life. With BGA, it's a stepping stone for the modern age. Our model allows Learners to autonomously conclude and adapt what their education should entail. They can then apply this approach to their higher education.
Rising student debt
The cost of higher education has been steadily increasing, leading to a significant upswing in student debt. This burden can limit opportunities for graduates, and negatively impact their financial well-being. Not to mention, this hurdle bars certain individuals from accessing higher education altogether. It is essential to explore innovative solutions to make education more affordable and accessible, such as increased financial aid, alternative funding models, or online-learning platforms.
BGA is an affordable, accessible solution which offers its education via a self-directed online platform. While BGA already offers a reduced cost as compared to traditional schooling, we want to continue moving toward free, quality education.
Research-focused universities and teaching quality
Some prestigious universities prioritise research activities over teaching, which can result in a decline in the quality of education provided. While research is important, balancing research and teaching can enhance the overall learning experience and better prepare students for their future careers.
As BGA encourages self-directed learning, Learners will enter their higher education already prepared with the skills to research and study, think critically, and and to control their education. They will be better able to determine what they need and how to achieve that goal.
Reinforcement of inequality
Studies state that higher education institutions perpetuate socioeconomic inequality by admitting a disproportionate number of students from higher socioeconomic backgrounds. This limits opportunities for talented individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds and hampers social mobility. Implementing equitable admission practices, providing financial support to underprivileged students, and diversifying outreach efforts can help address these inequalities.
BGA addresses this issue by providing Learners with an accessible education that embraces their individuality, encourages their talents, supports their choices, and prioritises their futures. We ensure that every Learner has an equal opportunity to shine and become their true selves.
Conclusion
In today's digital-first world, where technological advancements and societal changes occur rapidly, education's focus should shift towards equipping students with the ability to learn, unlearn, and relearn throughout their lives. Emphasising lifelong learning, adaptability, and the acquisition of new skills can empower individuals to navigate the ever-changing landscape of work and seize opportunities.
This is what BGA instills in their Learners—to be brave and be prepared!
While disrupting higher education entirely may not be the immediate solution, addressing these pain points and reimagining the current model can lead to a more relevant and inclusive system that better prepares students for the future of work.
By encouraging Learners to try out what they want to do throughout their secondary education, BGA aims to bridge many of the gaps mentioned above. Clear goals, passion, and practical knowledge provide a valuable awareness and preparation for higher education and/or the world of work.
For more information on BGA’s learning model please contact us or sign up to attend our webinar here.
Be BRAVE!
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