EconTalk Michael Munger on the Future of Higher Education
11 snips
Aug 17, 2020 Michael Munger, a Professor at Duke University and expert in political theory, discusses the transformative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on higher education. He believes top universities may find opportunities for innovation but warns that second-tier institutions face tougher challenges. Topics include the rise of online education, the elitism in academia, and the balance between traditional models and modern accessibility. Munger critiques escalating tuition costs while stressing the importance of shared experiences in academic growth.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
University's Essence
- The pandemic forces reflection on the essential features of universities and their potential for change.
- Professors face the realization that classes, easily replicated online, are not the core university function.
Online Education's Value
- Online education offers a valuable alternative for students lacking access to quality in-person instruction.
- The comparison should be between online learning and a student's available alternatives, not ideal in-person teaching.
University Evolution
- Universities originated with a humanistic focus, evolving towards a more scientific approach in Germany.
- The US further diversified this model, raising questions about universities' current purpose and accessibility.
