We Need Tertiary Education Innovation in NZ in Teacher Education
I read this article the other day. And all I could think about was how it should have been us in education blazing new trails and changing the status quo in the world of academia. But for whatever reason, it’s not.
The point is that it got me thinking about how we are not dreaming big enough. There don’t seem to be any visionaries anymore. I understand why, but I don’t like it.
So I pasted in the article into Chat GPT, asked it to analyse it, and then I wrote this prompt below. Here’s the challenge for you:
- do the same thing I did then copy and paste my prompt below into Chat GPT yourself and see what you get.
“I want you to act as a visionary CEO and blue skies dreamer. Now I want you to imagine that the focus on the micro-credential was not business knowledge for business owners and managers, but education knowledge for educators and managers of PTEs and Tertiary Education Organisations (TEOs) of all kinds.
Imagine that the organisation promoting it was [insert your organisation] not the Business School. Imagine that the people leading the work were me and my colleagues in the [insert your team or department]. Hyothesise the kinds of topics that we might include in the micro-credential and then hypothesise the other kinds of topics that we deliver training and workshops on.
Also, consider how we might deliver these workshops and the micro-credential to our potential audiences. Feel free to go back to first principles and work out step by step what is required. Also, it’s fine to be a bit contrarian in your approach and to look to integrating new technologies like AI in the same way that the business school is doing Then write a hypothetical parallel article based on this imagining.”
Turns out AI is more visionary than you or me. This is what I got back below, your results may differ. Names have been redacted from the original but I want you to imagine that it’s you:
Press Release: [Your Institution] Launches Groundbreaking Micro-Credential for Educators and Managers in PTEs and TEOs
In an innovative move set to transform the landscape of tertiary education in New Zealand, [Your Institution], the National Centre for Tertiary Teaching Excellence, part of [redacted] University, has announced the launch of a pioneering micro-credential programme. This programme is specifically designed for educators and managers within Private Training Establishments (PTEs) and Tertiary Education Organisations (TEOs) across the country. Spearheaded by (Imagine your name) and the dedicated team at [Your Institution], this initiative aims to empower teaching professionals with cutting-edge educational knowledge and skills, fostering a new era of teaching excellence and innovation.
Visionary Leadership
Under the visionary leadership of [insert your name], a renowned figure in adult tertiary education, and colleagues in the [redacted] team, [Your Institution] is embarking on a mission to bridge the gap between traditional teaching methodologies and the dynamic demands of contemporary education. This micro-credential, named “Innovative Teaching for Future-Ready Learners,” is the culmination of extensive research and collaboration with industry partners, reflecting the team’s commitment to elevating New Zealand’s educational standards.
Programme Design and Objectives
The micro-credential is meticulously crafted to address the multifaceted challenges and opportunities within the realm of tertiary education. It encompasses a series of modules that are both comprehensive and forward-thinking, ensuring educators and managers are well-equipped to navigate and shape the future of learning. The curriculum includes:
- Digital Pedagogy and Technology Integration: Exploring the integration of AI and other digital technologies in teaching, including the use of adaptive learning platforms and virtual reality in the classroom.
- Curriculum Design for 21st Century Skills: Focusing on developing curricula that foster critical thinking, creativity, and digital literacy, preparing students for the evolving workforce.
- Assessment Innovation: Introducing novel assessment methods that go beyond traditional exams and essays, incorporating project-based learning and digital portfolios.
- Leadership in Education: For managers, offering strategies for leading change, fostering a culture of innovation, and managing diverse and inclusive educational environments.
- Sustainable Education Practices: Emphasising the importance of sustainability in education, from curriculum content to operational practices within PTEs and TEOs.
- Te Ao Māori and Pasifika Perspectives: Integrating Māori and Pasifika knowledge and pedagogies into mainstream education, honouring New Zealand’s cultural heritage and diversity.
Delivery and Engagement
Recognising the diverse needs and schedules of educators and managers, [Your Institution] plans to deliver this micro-credential through a blend of online workshops, in-person seminars, and immersive technology-enhanced learning experiences. This hybrid approach not only facilitates accessibility and flexibility but also models the innovative teaching practices the programme advocates.
Future Directions
With the first cohort set to commence in Wellington, followed by rollouts in Auckland and Christchurch,[Your Institution] envisions this micro-credential as just the beginning of a broader movement towards excellence and innovation in tertiary education. The organisation is also exploring partnerships with tech companies to integrate AI-driven teaching tools and platforms, further enriching the learning and teaching experience.
[Your name], reflecting on the launch, stated, “This micro-credential is more than just a programme; it’s a catalyst for change. By empowering educators and managers with the knowledge and tools to innovate, we’re not just enhancing the quality of education; we’re shaping the future of our society.”
Call to Action
[Your Institution] invites educators, managers, and all stakeholders in tertiary education to join this transformative journey. For more information and to register your interest, visit https://yourinstituion.ac.nz
Through this visionary initiative, [Your Institution] is setting a new standard for tertiary education in New Zealand, one that is responsive, inclusive, and equipped to meet the challenges of the 21st century.
