more than adjustments; it necessitates a pivot in higher education, particularly in executive education and professional development. Learning architecture refers to the systematic framework that integrates various elements of learning – objectives, methodologies, technologies and assessments – into a cohesive whole. It forms the backbone of a learning educational system, orchestrating how learning experiences are designed, delivered and evaluated. Learning systems are not limited to universities – many organisations have them as well. Looking at an organisation’s overall learning architecture is a way to understand how learning relates to strategic objectives and design learning paths suited to the di erent levels and competence needs of the organisation. Through our work with customers we have been able to design completely new learning systems that encapsulate the life-wide learning philosophy into how organisations see their learning and development challenges. In parallel, a focus on personal development is ingrained into the system. Here, individual learners are navigating through clear learning paths that resonate with their personal growth trajectories and career ambitions. Aalto University is at the forefront of implementing this philosophy, championing a learning architecture that is as varied and expansive as the institution itself. It embodies a flexible and broad-based approach, finely attuned to the nuanced needs and goals of the modern learner. Skills – the currency of the future In a world where job roles and industries are in a state of constant flux, individuals and organisations are mandated to embrace a wide selection of skills to remain at the peak of their respective domains. Life-wide learning, which blends various formats with formal education, aids professionals in gathering a rich skill set that holds currency in the contemporary marketplace. This approach fosters professionals who are not only resilient, but are equipped to navigate the world with dexterity and foresight. In today’s working life, the degree you gained in your early 20s hardly covers all the skills you will need in your career. We all need interdisciplinary expertise and skills. For example, a graduate with a master’s of science in economics and business administration may have to implement di erent kinds of technological solutions; whereas someone holding a master’s of arts degree may run their own company, while those with a master’s of science in technology may lead employees in diverse organisations. One example of life-wide learning in action is our focus on ‘art-preneurship’ as a cross-cutting approach to business and art studies. The project emerged from a collaboration between various academic and cultural institutions across the Nordic and Baltic regions. Led by Aalto University, the mission was to support the creative industries by enhancing networking approaches and management styles, developing new business skills and focusing on sustainable economic activity. In addition, the initiative aimed to foster new entrepreneurial opportunities.
BIOGRAPHY
Laura Sivula is business area director responsible for life-wide learning at both Aalto University Executive Education and Professional Development and Aalto University, where she oversees the development of the life-wide learning business area. Sivula is an educator and practitioner with a keen interest in the future of work and strategic foresight. She holds a master’s degree in economics and management studies from the University of Aberdeen and lives in Helsinki, Finland
32 | Ambition NOVEMBER 2023
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