A Perspective on the Future of Higher Education

With the rapid advances in AI technology, it is becoming essential for higher education institutions to invest in significant reform over the next 10 to 20 years. Students will demand a more flexible, adapted, low-cost, and practical education. Also, the number of employers requiring knowledge units/modules rather than college degrees will increase significantly. Knowledge units/modules and certificates will substitute or complement current degree structures. Therefore, there is a need for a new and expanded educational model that educates students throughout their lives. This article suggests a reform in which students can access knowledge units anytime, anywhere, and at any pace. AI will be a primary factor in providing individuals with adapted personalized information. Society is headed toward a future education that is most outcome-driven, 24/7 availability, physical place independent, AI individualization, low-cost, and consists of concise knowledge units. The reform should provide problem-solving and creativity, communication skills (both interpersonal and intrapersonal), lifelong learning, industry partnership, advising and networking, and motivation for a self-learning attitude.