Professor Tales Andreassi discusses direction of higher education at international conference

Representing Carlos Ivan Simonsen Leal, FGV’s president, Professor Tales Andreassi, the vice dean of FGV EAESP, took part in the 2024 edition of Reinventing Higher Education, an international conference hosted by the University of Miami. This event, held through a partnership between IE University and IE Foundation, has been taking place since 2010, providing a forum for dialogue about the future direction of higher education.

Bringing together more than 100 experts of various nationalities, the conference addressed emerging trends and current challenges in higher education. It featured contributions from prominent figures such as Laura Kohn-Wood, the dean of the University of Miami, and Professor Eric Mazur of Harvard University, who highlighted the need to adapt to demographic changes and the integration of new technologies.

The event focused on teaching innovations and emphasized the importance of a multidisciplinary and technological approach to education.

The conference’s 14th edition generated several significant results, including the following:

• Formulation of innovative strategies: the debates and panels provided valuable insights for formulating innovative strategies in higher education, especially regarding the integration of technology and active teaching methodologies.

• Expansion of collaborative networks: the event facilitated the expansion of collaborative networks between higher education institutions, fostering strategic partnerships to carry out joint research and development projects.

• Dissemination of exemplary practices: exemplary practices and success stories in the implementation of educational and technological innovations were shared, serving as inspiring models for institutions around the globe.

• Commitment to social change: universities’ commitment to act as agents of social change was reiterated, emphasizing the need to address the issues of equity, diversity and inclusion.

During Reinventing Higher Education, Professor Tales Andreassi identified four essential pillars for innovation in higher education, which point to significant transformations in educational approach:

1. Engagement of students through collaborative projects

The transition from lectures to collaborative projects is seen as a vital move. This approach promotes the active engagement of students, placing them at the center of the learning process and encouraging collaboration and critical thinking. The professor’s role is evolving into that of a facilitator, guiding and supporting students on their educational journey.

2. Promotion of multidisciplinary teaching

The conference highlighted the importance of interdisciplinarity approaches aimed at breaking down traditional knowledge silos. By integrating different fields of knowledge, project-based learning fosters a broader and deeper understanding of subjects, preparing students to solve complex problems in an increasingly interconnected world.

3. Implementation of innovative technologies

The adoption of emerging technologies by some courses at the University of Miami, such as augmented reality glasses in nursing and history courses, exemplifies the potential of technological innovation to enrich the educational experience. These tools allow students to explore virtual environments and situations, enriching practical and theoretical learning with immersive experiences.

4. Integration of artificial intelligence into the educational process

The emphasis on artificial intelligence reflects its growing importance as an educational tool. The ability to ask meaningful questions and adapt learning to students’ individual needs demonstrates AI’s potential to personalize education, making it more effective and accessible.

These conclusions brought to light by Professor Andreassi are a call to action for educators, administrators and policymakers to rethink and reshape higher education. The road ahead requires a holistic approach that integrates these educational and technological innovations, with the aim of creating a learning environment that is truly adaptive, inclusive and prepared for the challenges of the future.