PEDAGOGY
A paradigm shift As the boundaries between disciplines blur and the speed of technological advancement accelerates, the higher education sector finds itself at a crossroads. The choice is clear: to cling to the linear, structured pathways of yesterday or to embrace a learning curve that is as flexible and broad-based as the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Aalto University has chosen the latter, pioneering an approach to education that is responsive, adaptable and tailored to meet the individual needs and goals of every learner. This shift embodies a redefinition of professional development, acknowledging the intrinsic relationship between personal growth and career progression. It propels individuals to take ownership of their learning journey, fostering an environment of innovation and engagement. Expanding curricula The professional development curriculum should be highly responsive to market needs, evolving to incorporate emerging trends, technologies and industry requirements. By doing so, it nurtures professionals who are not just well-informed but can also leverage their knowledge for practical, real-world applications. At Aalto EE, we constantly scan customer and market needs and consider how to address them. Above all, the expansion of curricula should foster a culture of continuous learning. Professionals should be encouraged to take charge of their learning journey, seeking opportunities for growth and development. Today, people and companies need to update their skills related to AI, sustainability and leadership – along with many other topics. The potential of micro-credentials In an era where agility is the currency of success, micro-credentials emerge as a game-changer, o ering focused, fast-paced learning modules directly aligned with market demands. Micro-credentials are a type of certification that indicate the holder has acquired a specific skill or set of skills, typically in a shorter amount of time compared to traditional degree programmes. These can be seen as mini-qualifications that demonstrate expertise in a specific area. They are usually acquired through online platforms, workshops or short courses. Micro-credentials as learning units are not only restricted to online learning or short courses; they can also form parts of degrees suitable for professional development. At Aalto University, the micro-credentials system is devised to serve the growing need for specialisation amidst professionals, o ering them the opportunity to continuously build and maintain a competitive competence profile. These credentials bring about a fundamental shift, allowing learners to venture beyond the rigid structures that once characterised higher education. Leveraging technology On-demand learning has emerged as a potent tool in fostering a culture of continuous learning. With an array of learning resources available at their fingertips, professionals can now actively seek
opportunities to expand their knowledge base, keeping well- informed of the latest developments in their respective fields. Executive programmes are thus aligning their structures to facilitate this, fostering a breed of professionals who are always ready to adapt and innovate. The convergence of life-wide learning with on-demand education o ers a chance to redefine the essence of professional development. This approach recognises the symbiotic relationship between personal growth and professional development, urging individuals to take charge of their learning journeys. In this way, organisations cultivate an environment that is innovative and engaged, fostering a workforce that is adept at crossing the complexities of today’s fast-paced world. In this era of swift technological advancement and shifting industry dynamics, the urgency to evolve and adapt cannot be understated. A comprehensive learning architecture, like the one envisioned here, is not just a response to the changing times but a proactive move towards fostering a culture of continuous learning. Through the integration of expansive curricula, on-demand learning and innovative credentialing systems, this type of structure paves the way for a more engaged, adaptable and innovative workforce, ready to navigate the complexities of the modern world with agility and foresight. By adopting a life-wide learning approach, we exceed the traditional boundaries of executive education, fostering a learning environment that recognises the need for continuous learning and development. Taking the next step Our goal is that whatever our potential customer’s direction is, they can find the next step within our diverse life-wide learning o ering. In addition to o ering more traditional executive education and professional development programmes for leaders and experts in their fields, we now o er low-threshold opportunities for acquiring the essentials of specific topics as well. Our life-wide learning portfolio covers programmes and courses from coding to marketing and from engineering to design. Moreover, we have extensive experience in building customised learning solutions based on an organisation’s needs. This type of portfolio of learning solutions enables life-wide learning for individuals at various stages of their lives and careers from self-directed to facilitated learning experiences. Personally, I do this out of passion. Throughout my career, my focus has been on creating improved learning environments and opportunities for people. I am deeply passionate about fostering companies’ growth, recognising that it relies on the growth and development of people. The internet is full of information. Our goal is to help people strengthen their thinking, analytical, data processing and teamwork skills – abilities that cannot be acquired from books alone. Therefore, it’s essential to create learning and skills-sharing environments where individuals are free to reach their full potential.
Ambition NOVEMBER 2023 | 33
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