In this episode of the World of Higher Education Podcast, host Alex Usher is joined by Bryan Alexander, the author of 'Peak Higher Ed: How to Survive the Looming Academic Crisis.' They discuss the challenges facing higher education in the United States including demographic shifts, public skepticism, and the impact of AI on education. Bryan elaborates on the peak of growth around 2012 and the subsequent decline, as well as potential strategies for institutions to adapt and survive this crisis. The conversation also touches on the political landscape, economic pressures, and the future of higher education.

👉 Episode Links:

• Peak Higher Ed: How to Survive the Looming Academic Crisis by Bryan Alexander
• The World of Higher Education Podcast S1 E12: Universities on Fire with Bryan Alexander
• Register for free: Focus Friday February 6 | Degree Redesign

Join Alex Usher on The World of Higher Education Podcast as he dives into the remarkable transformation of Uzbekistan's higher education system over the past decade. Komiljon Karimov, Rector of Westminster International University in Tashkent, shares his unique perspective on the fivefold expansion, the role of foreign universities, and the challenges of maintaining quality amidst rapid growth. Discover how Uzbekistan's new leadership and demographic changes sparked a massive overhaul, transforming the country into a burgeoning hub for higher education. Don't miss this in-depth discussion on one of the most extraordinary educational reforms of recent times.

Join Alex Usher on The World of Higher Education Podcast as he engages in a compelling discussion with Frank Ziegele, Executive Director of the Center for Higher Education in Germany. They delve into the intricacies of creating authentic missions for universities in a constantly evolving educational landscape. Ziegele sheds light on his book, 'Authentic Universities: Effective University Identities in Times of Transition,' discussing the importance of differentiation and authenticity. They explore the challenges and strategies for institutions to adopt distinctive missions, the role of government in encouraging diversity in education, and much more. Tune in to explore the complexities and opportunities of authentic university missions.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

00:32 Guest Introduction: Frank Ziegele

01:45 The Importance of Differentiation in Higher Education

02:10 Challenges and Opportunities in University Missions

04:17 Spotting Authentic Differentiation

05:15 Strategies for Authentic University Profiles

07:53 Government's Role in University Differentiation

09:12 Examples of Horizontal Differentiation

12:01 Implementing Differentiation Strategies

14:58 Overcoming Faculty Silos

17:47 Pitfalls in Developing Authentic Profiles

21:59 Global Perspectives on Differentiation

22:22 Reception and Impact of the Book

24:33 Conclusion and Farewell

👉 Episode Links:

• Focus Friday: Sign up to receive our daily newsletter and register for our biweekly webinars for free
• Authentic Universities – Effective university identities in times of transition