Wilfrid Laurier University: Charting a Path to Positive Change in Academic Excellence
As a former business student, I have deeply considered the challenges and opportunities faced by Wilfrid Laurier University (Laurier) in achieving its strategic aim to inspire lives of leadership and purpose. Gavin Brockett's 2011 post underscores a critical observation about the potential negative impact of administrative changes on teaching effectiveness and student experience at any post-secondary institution. In this article, we will explore various perspectives on Laurier's current state, the challenges it faces, and the steps it can take to improve its reputation and contribute positively to the academic landscape.
Education's Undervalued State
Gavin's statement that education is extremely undervalued is a compelling point. Indeed, the funding gap for education continues to widen, requiring solutions from all stakeholders. The growth in class sizes, driven by government funding, tuition fees, and alumni donations, is both a result of strategic expansion and a potential concern for the quality of the student experience. It is essential to question whether this expansion aligns with the best interests of students and other stakeholders, including alumni and future generations.
Measuring Professor Performance
Addressing the difficulty in measuring professor effectiveness, it is clear that ineffective or unorganized instructors can significantly waste student time and resources. Despite the challenges, it is still crucial to recognize the impact of dedicated and passionate faculty members like those at Laurier. While metrics such as employment rates and starting salaries of recent graduates can be useful, they may not fully capture the long-term impact of a professor's work. Instead, the success of research and the close relationship between faculty and alumni should be valued as significant indicators of academic excellence.
Large Organization Challenges
As an academic institution, Laurier is part of a larger system where administrative inefficiencies often lead to wasted resources. Despite these challenges, it is remarkable to observe the passion and dedication of Laurier's faculty and administration. Embracing this dedication and building on it can lead to transformative change within the university and beyond.
Education's Evolving Landscape
Arguably, the most significant challenge for universities today is the rapid evolution of the educational landscape itself. Advances in technology are revolutionizing the way people learn, with online courses and open education resources becoming increasingly prevalent. In this context, Laurier must adapt to remain relevant while maintaining its core values.
Steps Towards Positive Change
To achieve positive change, Laurier must take bold steps. Firstly, it needs to address administrative inefficiencies and streamline operations to better serve its students and faculty. Secondly, the university should focus on attracting the best talent, both students and faculty, by placing less emphasis on standardized high school metrics and more on a holistic evaluation of applicants' potential and passion.
Moreover, Laurier should take risks, innovate, and set an example for other institutions by making a significant contribution to global issues. This, in turn, can enhance its reputation as a socially responsible and forward-thinking university.
Community and Culture
Finally, it is essential for the alumni, students, and faculty of Laurier to maintain a strong sense of community and culture. Balancing academics, athletics, arts, cultural involvement, and individual passions is crucial for a well-rounded educational experience. By instilling these values, Laurier can inspire lives of leadership and purpose, fulfilling its long-term mission.
Through strategic reform and a renewed focus on student experience, Wilfrid Laurier University can continue to serve as a model of academic excellence and positive change in the post-secondary education landscape.