Generational Encounters with Higher Education: The Academic-Student Relationship and the University Experience

This book explores how changes in higher education norms, values, and purpose shape the generation coming of age, offering an original approach to the study of education through a generational lens. It examines the qualitative dimensions of the relationship between academics and students, as well as wider issues of culture and socialization, such as tuition fees, student mental health, social mobility, and employment.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 180 pages
Publication date: 17 March 2021
Publisher: Bristol University Press

The 21st century has brought about profound transformations in the frameworks and policies governing higher education. However, it is crucial to understand how these shifts in norms, values, and purposes are shaping the generation that is currently emerging into adulthood. In order to explore this topic, this book adopts a generational analysis, offering a fresh perspective on the study of education. It delves into the qualitative aspects of the relationship between academics and students, while also examining broader issues such as culture and socialization, encompassing topics such as tuition fees, student mental health, social mobility, and employment. This timely contribution to ongoing discussions about universities is an invaluable resource for individuals interested in education, youth, and intergenerational relations.

The 21st century has witnessed significant changes to the structures and policies framing Higher Education. These changes have impacted the lives of individuals and society as a whole, shaping the generation now coming of age. In this essay, we will explore the impact of these changes on the norms, values, and purpose of higher education.

Norms:

One of the most significant changes in higher education is the increasing emphasis on academic excellence and competitiveness. Students are now expected to achieve high grades, participate in extracurricular activities, and compete for prestigious scholarships and jobs. This pressure to perform has led to a culture of stress and anxiety among students, as they strive to meet the expectations of their peers and institutions.

Another change in norms is the increasing diversity of students in higher education. Students from different backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives are now attending universities, which has led to a greater awareness of diversity and inclusion. This has led to the development of programs and policies to promote diversity and inclusion, such as cultural sensitivity training, diversity committees, and affirmative action policies.

Values:

The values of higher education have also shifted in the 21st century. Students are now more likely to prioritize career success and financial stability over personal growth and social responsibility. This shift is driven by the increasing importance of the job market and the need to secure a stable income. However, this emphasis on careerism has led to concerns about the quality of education and the lack of emphasis on critical thinking and lifelong learning.

Purpose:

The purpose of higher education has also evolved in the 21st century. Students are now more likely to view higher education as a means of achieving personal and professional goals rather than as a means of acquiring knowledge and developing critical thinking skills. This shift is driven by the increasing demand for specialized skills and the need to adapt to a rapidly changing job market.

Conclusion:

The 21st century has brought about significant changes to the structures and policies framing Higher Education. These changes have impacted the norms, values, and purpose of higher education, shaping the generation now coming of age. While these changes have brought about some positive outcomes, such as increased diversity and inclusion, they have also led to concerns about the quality of education and the lack of emphasis on critical thinking and lifelong learning. As we move forward, it is important to consider how we can balance the demands of academic excellence and personal growth to ensure that higher education continues to be a valuable and relevant resource for individuals and society as a whole.

Weight: 290g
Dimension: 157 x 233 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529209785