Sodexo Highlights Disruptive Trends in Global Higher Education Sector
The report which forms part of a series of annual reports focusing on future trends, focuses on five interrelated topics - with a core focus on the changing role of universities and what they must do to engage with a new generation of students.
Featured trends in 2018, include:
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Beyond academics: Changing economic, political, social, digital, cultural and environmental forces are evolving the work landscape. "Preparing students" takes on an expanded mandate beyond academic education, to include personal development and extracurricular offerings.
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Engaging first-generation students: A new generation of students is emerging from the growing middle class, and universities are working to recognise and support them - with clear benefits beyond the individual experience.
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Enhancing student experiences with technology: Today's college students are digital natives: they expect technological touchpoints through recruitment, studying and post-graduation.
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Evolving brick-and-mortar universities: Global growth in student population, access to technology and student mobility is changing the way they experience physical campuses. Universities are increasingly offering blended and customised models.
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Lifelong learning: As technology changes the workplace, education is moving from the traditional 'one-and-done' model to a broader audience including adults and senior residents looking to keep up. Universities are exploring how to connect, provide for and inspire remote learners, working adults and returning students.
Discussing the report, Satya-Christophe Menard, CEO, Sodexo Schools & Universities Worldwide, said:
"More than ever, the headwinds of technological, economic and cultural change are impacting the way students learn and develop. With this rapid change upon us, it is incumbent on all university stakeholders - not only institutions themselves, but also public authorities, parents, partners and suppliers, to work together to support students and contribute to a successful on-campus experience.
"By drawing on experience and a range of research, Sodexo can guide our clients to effective solution-based action."
The report is available from here.
