The World of Higher Education

Join Alex Usher in the latest episode of the World of Higher Education Podcast as he discusses the hyperactive state of New Zealand's higher education policy with Roger Smyth, a former senior New Zealand public servant, now a consultant. The episode delves into the recent activities of the University Advisory Group, government decisions affecting institutional frameworks, the controversial halt in humanities and social sciences research funding, the financial challenges faced by universities, and the merger of polytechnics into one national institution. Roger provides insightful updates on the progress and impacts of these changes, shedding light on the broader implications for the sector. Tune in to stay informed on the evolving landscape of higher education in New Zealand.👉 Episode Links: WorldEd 2.16: The Failed Fees Free Policy in New ZealandPlease note, the views and opinions expressed in each episode are those of the individual contributors, and do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast host and team, or our sponsors.This episode is sponsored by KnowMeQ.ArchieCPL is the first AI-enabled tool that massively streamlines credit for prior learning evaluation. Toronto based KnowMeQ makes ethical AI tools that boost and bottom line, achieving new efficiencies in higher ed and workforce upskilling. 

In this episode of The World of Higher Education Podcast, Alex Usher is joined by Dr. Romulo Pinheiro, a professor at the University of Agder, Norway. They discuss the evolving role of universities in regional economic development, particularly in peripheral areas. Dr. Pinheiro shares insights on the challenges and strategies for universities in less densely populated regions, their global and local ambitions, and the vital role of trust. They also explore the balance between global excellence and regional relevance, the effect of institutional and disciplinary structures, and the importance of autonomy and diversity in ensuring institutional resilience. Tune in to understand how universities can realistically contribute to solving regional problems without being seen as the fixers of all societal issues.Please note, the views and opinions expressed in each episode are those of the individual contributors, and do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast host and team, or our sponsors.This episode is sponsored by KnowMeQ.ArchieCPL is the first AI-enabled tool that massively streamlines credit for prior learning evaluation. Toronto based KnowMeQ makes ethical AI tools that boost and bottom line, achieving new efficiencies in higher ed and workforce upskilling. 

Join Alex Usher on the World of Higher Education Podcast as he delves into the future of Canadian higher education amidst economic shifts with guest John Stackhouse, Senior Vice President at the Royal Bank of Canada. The discussion focuses on the necessity for post-secondary education reform, the vital role of human capital, and how universities can better align with evolving labor market needs. Learn about the complexities facing the sector, from outdated budget models to the integration of research and development, and the imperative steps needed to create a more resilient and innovative higher education system in Canada.👉 Episode Links: RBC Thought LeadershipReport: A Smarter Path: The case for postsecondary education reformPlease note, the views and opinions expressed in each episode are those of the individual contributors, and do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast host and team, or our sponsors.This episode is sponsored by KnowMeQ.ArchieCPL is the first AI-enabled tool that massively streamlines credit for prior learning evaluation. Toronto based KnowMeQ makes ethical AI tools that boost and bottom line, achieving new efficiencies in higher ed and workforce upskilling. 

Join host Alex Usher in the World of Higher Education Podcast as he interviews Shai Reshef, Founder and President of University of the People. Discover how this online institution serves 150,000 students across 209 countries with a tuition-free model. Learn the economics behind running a mega online university, the role of technology and volunteers, and how they achieve quality education at a fraction of the cost of traditional universities. Listen in as Reshef shares insights about their unique admission process, accreditation challenges, and the future of higher education.👉 Episode Links: University of the PeoplePlease note, the views and opinions expressed in each episode are those of the individual contributors, and do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast host and team, or our sponsors.This episode is sponsored by KnowMeQ.ArchieCPL is the first AI-enabled tool that massively streamlines credit for prior learning evaluation. Toronto based KnowMeQ makes ethical AI tools that boost and bottom line, achieving new efficiencies in higher ed and workforce upskilling. 

In this episode of the World of Higher Education Podcast, host Alex Usher delves into a discussion about the Program for International Assessment of Adult Competencies (PIAAC) with guest Noel Baldwin, Executive Director of Canada's Future Skills Centre. Baldwin explains the scope and purpose of PIAAC, compares it to PISA, and delves into its implications on policies, particularly how governments utilize the data. Key topics include global declines in adult literacy, factors affecting these trends, the use of skills data in Canada, and the future of PIAAC. The episode also touches on the potential impact on workforce skills, literacy strategies, and the changing landscape of policy-making based on hard data. 👉 Episode Links: Survey of Adult Skills (PIAAC)Future Skills CentrePlease note, the views and opinions expressed in each episode are those of the individual contributors, and do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast host and team, or our sponsors.This episode is sponsored by Studiosity.Student success, at scale - with an evidence-based ROI of 4.4x return for universities and colleges. Because Studiosity is AI for Learning — not corrections - to develop critical thinking, agency, and retention — empowering educators with learning insight. For future-ready graduates — and for future-ready institutions. Learn more at studiosity.com.

In this episode of the World of Higher Education Podcast, host Alex Usher talks with Nicolas Badré, Chief Operating Officer of Galileo Global Education, about the rise of private higher education in Europe. They explore the unique business model of Galileo Global Education, its rapid expansion, and its innovative approaches, including leveraging AI for content creation, student experience, and operational efficiency. They also discuss Galileo's new initiative, Copernia, and its master's program focused on innovation and technology in education. Learn how private institutions are adapting to new educational demands.👉 Episode Links: Galileo Global EducationCoperniaPlease note, the views and opinions expressed in each episode are those of the individual contributors, and do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast host and team, or our sponsors.This episode is sponsored by Studiosity.Student success, at scale - with an evidence-based ROI of 4.4x return for universities and colleges. Because Studiosity is AI for Learning — not corrections - to develop critical thinking, agency, and retention — empowering educators with learning insight. For future-ready graduates — and for future-ready institutions. Learn more at studiosity.com.

In this episode of the World of Higher Education Podcast, host Alex Usher delves into the nuances of innovation in universities with guest Dara Melnyk. They discuss the catalysts for innovation in higher education, the required structure and leadership for sustaining innovation, and the global differences in institutional approaches. Dara shares insights from the Innovative University's Global Webinar series, highlighting practical and impractical motivations behind institutional innovation, criteria for selecting innovative cases, and the impact of external and internal challenges. 👉 Episode Links: Innovative Universities Webinar: https://constructor.university/innovative-universities-global-webinar-series World of Higher Education Podcast | Episode 2.11: Post-Soviet Higher Education with Isak Froumin: https://worlded.transistor.fm/episodes/2-11-post-soviet-higher-educationPlease note, the views and opinions expressed in each episode are those of the individual contributors, and do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast host and team, or our sponsors.This episode is sponsored by Studiosity.Student success, at scale - with an evidence-based ROI of 4.4x return for universities and colleges. Because Studiosity is AI for Learning — not corrections - to develop critical thinking, agency, and retention — empowering educators with learning insight. For future-ready graduates — and for future-ready institutions. Learn more at studiosity.com.

In this interview, Alex speaks with Steven Mintz, a renowned scholar and postdoctoral researcher, and author of the book, "The Learning-Centered University: Making College a More Developmental, Transformational, and Equitable Experience" In the following conversation, Mintz discusses what makes a learning-centered university, the benefits of active learning over traditional lectures, and the practical challenges faced in implementing these changes. The discussion also delves into alternative scalable learning models, competency-based education, and the importance of holistic student support systems. Steven also reflects on his experience leading digital learning transformations and provides actionable steps for universities aiming to become learning-centered institutions.👉 Episode Links:The Learning-Centered University: Making College a More Developmental, Transformational, and Equitable ExperiencePlease note, the views and opinions expressed in each episode are those of the individual contributors, and do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast host and team, or our sponsors.This episode is sponsored by Studiosity.Student success, at scale - with an evidence-based ROI of 4.4x return for universities and colleges. Because Studiosity is AI for Learning — not corrections - to develop critical thinking, agency, and retention — empowering educators with learning insight. For future-ready graduates — and for future-ready institutions. Learn more at studiosity.com.

In this episode of the World of Higher Education Podcast, host Alex Usher interviews Dendev Badarch, a professor at the Mongolian University of Science and Technology, about the evolution and current state of higher education in Mongolia. They discuss the historical Soviet influence, the impact of Mongolia's transition to a market economy, the rise of private colleges, and recent legislative changes aimed at university autonomy. Badarch also outlines the challenges and opportunities facing Mongolian higher education, including funding issues, the need for stronger research culture, and the potential for international collaboration and digital technologies.👉 Episode Links:International Higher Education — Transforming Higher Education in MongoliaPlease note, the views and opinions expressed in each episode are those of the individual contributors, and do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast host and team, or our sponsors.This episode is sponsored by Studiosity.Student success, at scale - with an evidence-based ROI of 4.4x return for universities and colleges. Because Studiosity is AI for Learning — not corrections - to develop critical thinking, agency, and retention — empowering educators with learning insight. For future-ready graduates — and for future-ready institutions. Learn more at studiosity.com.

Join Alex Usher in this episode of the World of Higher Education podcast where he chats with Hilligje van 't Land, Secretary General of the International Association of Universities (IAU). They delve into the evolution and role of IAU, challenges of global higher education, and how universities from diverse backgrounds can work together towards common goals. 👉 Episode Links:IAU Webinar Series on the Future of Higher EducationPlease note, the views and opinions expressed in each episode are those of the individual contributors, and do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast host and team, or our sponsors.This episode is sponsored by Studiosity.Student success, at scale - with an evidence-based ROI of 4.4x return for universities and colleges. Because Studiosity is AI for Learning — not corrections - to develop critical thinking, agency, and retention — empowering educators with learning insight. For future-ready graduates — and for future-ready institutions. Learn more at studiosity.com.