These challenges are balanced by opportunities such as the ability to reach a global audience, personalised learning experiences and the capacity to rapidly update curricula to meet industry needs. In order to drive innovation, highlighted Sivula, “schools must offer a cutting-edge curriculum, agile product development and a flexible learning format, as well as strengthening their partnerships and providing thought leadership”. Education through innovation Adrian Johnson, adjunct professor and programme director at Insead, used his session at the conference to delve into the transformative role of AI in education and how it is reshaping the pedagogical landscape. He began by noting how generative AI can be used to design a course based on subject, learning objectives and the level of the students involved. Johnson advocated the use of enhanced learning tools such as simulations from Qinect (where he is the company co-founder), virtual tutors from Tutello, educational games and content generation, as well as virtual and augmented reality. He noted how generative AI can also be used to create personalised learning, including adaptive learning platforms; learning analytics; customised learning paths; flexible grouping in classrooms; gamified learning experiences; and interactive tutoring systems. Each student receives a grade and detailed feedback tailored to their learning objectives and subject matter. In addition, the use of AI can assist with administration efficiency in terms of scheduling, resource allocation, records and progress reports, plus student communications. Johnson also referenced the changing role of the educator, which has migrated from coach to mentor to Socratic guide. Management resilience training Military training methodology was what inspired Newton University to compile its X-tream management programme, according to chancellor Anna Plechata Krausova, who said it aims to “directly address the employment market’s demand for resilience”. Plechata described it as practical, offering learning experiences and skills to prepare students for the real world; individual in its approach to support and mentoring in order to unlock students’ potential; and fostering lifelong learning, plus a community spirit and a sense of belonging. The Newton chancellor detailed the top ten skills as outlined in the World Economic Forum’s latest Future of Jobs report: these include analytical thinking; flexibility and agility; technological literacy; empathy and attention to detail, with resilience coming in at third place. She then highlighted the way in which Gen Zers and some younger millennials are said to be completely overwhelmed by stress, much more so than any previous
those in charge of data analysis”. Gimranova talked about competition in the sector saying that it “is now global due to greater availability and micro-credentials, so the challenge is how to keep degree programmes in demand”. Mitescu agreed, adding “business education has gone international – we are competing for the same students”. Universities as catalysts for transformation Laura Sivula, business area director for life-wide learning at Aalto University, examined the role of universities in the modern world, which she described as having migrated from “degree-driven to learning-orientated”. While universities have previously focused on research and students obtaining a degree, they are now firmly at the centre of strategic development and need to upskill professionals to help them navigate the constantly changing business landscape. This means that education is shifting towards shorter programmes that can be bundled to meet the diverse needs for upskilling and reskilling, given that new competences are required to keep pace with rapid technological change. Sivula then outlined some of the current challenges faced by business schools; these include resistance to change, funding and the digital divide. Resistance to change is a natural human response, noted the Aalto director, “especially in institutions with long-standing traditions such as universities”, while digital transformation “requires significant investment in technology infrastructure and training”. The digital divide, meanwhile, not only affects different socio-economic groups, but also spans generations, creating a gap between those who grew up with technology and those who did not.
The beautiful Municipal House Restaurant was the venue for the conference networking dinner
20 | Ambition | SEPTEMBER 2024
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