Diana Oblinger – Uncommon thinking for the common good

(most) Modern students are tech savvy and networked (i,e facebook) – most US academics use
facebook to contact students – NOT email.

Students are mobile & consummate information gathers (resources to support lecturers) including
geotagged --- but not necessarily accurate. Digital literacy is still an issue, they require additional
help here.

Globalisation – pushes hyper competitive and knowledge driven to ensure innovation. These larger
forces are changing the way HE is being delivered.

Largest demographic (over 24) are in the workplace, and they need upskilling. A 1% increase in the
size of a countrys tertiary workforce increases GDP by 6%. Adult learning is important here also.

Innovation is the driver of economic success. Investments in R&D + entrepreneurship to make it

happen.

Technology is changing the rules – the net is changing mindset. Collaboration, networking, and
contributions are now possible. Shift thinking - the net is pushing a ne wway of thinking

Flexible , experiential learning – what’s happening now

Informal learning is greater than the 7.7% of time that the students spend in the classroom. Martini
learning experiences is the way modern students learn (link to Kathy Yancey paper)

Systems based thinking – when learning in online gaming – deep analysis. Informal learning
environments. Like WoW, etc should be considered – ie. Creating roleplay in SL like environments to
think out loud and experience things. Carnigie Melon uni have a hazardous materials course in a
MUVE.

Redefining expertise – i..e Wikipedia.

It’s a process of collective intelligence – we all have an opportunity to create and co-create.
Everyone has the opportunity to contribute. Virtual organisations help solve problems
collaboratively. (co-laboratories) share data in open systems (see wikinonimcs book) .
Another trend is sharing resources... “cloud computing” - look at cloud trip website. Most students
use googlemail – not Uni email. Ie. Cheaper licencing issues, sharing resources around campuses.
Also sharing research data runching using terragrid. And the new OER, and opencourseware and
also connexions. US are making more resources to their community colleges.

Alternative business models: flatworld knowledge – open college textbooks – create

your own books!!

Also an emergence into large communities of practice, using simulations and a shared areas.

Final trend – integrated educational systems. Lifelong learners. Using analytics to predict problems
with students. Trying to reduce the dropout when students move between learning organisations.
Flexible degrees are also on the increase.

Its about not o wning stuff, collaborating and innovation and new business models. Connected Hubs
of knowledge like nanohub.

Growth in the power of reflection and academics as coaches using Eportfolios. Students will develop
more conversational skills as their confidence improves. This improvement in self confidence
pervades to other parts of their life, even quicker if they have a life coach to help.