Reframing Higher Education the Wild Atlantic Way A Personal Reflection

Abstract

Our Higher Education system has been invited to change – in response to the many challenges that impinge on our economy and society. The Institute of Technology Blanchardstown is a partner in the TU4D Alliance with the DIT and the ITT Dublin in an endeavour to create a Technological University for Dublin. As a member of the TU4D Support team I am constantly reminded of the enormous potential of this project. On a personal and professional level as I reflect on my own educational journey – I would like to share with you some of my reflections as I unpack and critique my own preconceived notions regarding the essential characteristics of our Higher Education system.  These observations cover the full gamut of a learning journey – from choosing a course; our models of teaching and learning; a competitive system of higher education and, finally, the benefits of regional collaboration and cooperation.