Dr. Agus Zaenul Fitri | Quadruple Helix Disruption in Education | International Seminar Tulungagung

Summary

Dr. Agus Zainul Fitri discusses the impact of disruption on education, particularly the commercialization of universities, and the importance of collaboration between government, academia, industry, and community in the Quadruple Helix model. He highlights the need for universities to prepare students with both hard and soft skills to face an uncertain future where many jobs haven’t been invented yet. Dr. Fitri emphasizes the value of research, the role of higher education in adapting to change, and the necessity for universities to work closely with industry and government to stay relevant in the evolving educational landscape.

Takeaways

• 😀 The concept of 'Quadruple Helix' in education and its importance in linking knowledge and innovation between government, academia, industry, and the community.
• 😀 Disruption in education is marked by three key factors: speed, surprise, and students, leading to a paradigm shift in the way education is approached today.
• 😀 The trend of commercialization in education institutions is on the rise, with universities moving towards more commercial models, including those in Indonesia.
• 😀 There is a gap between universities and the government in utilizing research findings for decision-making, which highlights the need for better collaboration in the Quadruple Helix model.
• 😀 An example of successful Quadruple Helix implementation is in Bandung, where ITB (Institut Teknologi Bandung) collaborates with the government, community, and industry to strengthen the local fashion industry.
• 😀 In order for universities to remain relevant, they must align more closely with the needs of industries and government agencies, ensuring that research directly benefits society.
• 😀 Education in the current era must focus on preparing students with the necessary skills (both hard and soft) to adapt to the fast-changing job market of the future.
• 😀 As new jobs emerge that do not currently exist, universities must provide students with the tools to adapt, fostering skills for jobs that may not even be defined yet.
• 😀 The uncertainty of the future is a defining characteristic of current and upcoming educational challenges, and students must prepare to face these unknowns with a focus on skills over traditional degrees.
• 😀 The importance of fostering a balance between academia and real-world application is crucial to ensure graduates are well-prepared to contribute meaningfully to society and the job market.

Q & A

What is the concept of 'Quadruple Helix' in education?

The Quadruple Helix in education refers to the collaboration between four key components: government, universities, industries, and communities. This model emphasizes the importance of linking knowledge and innovation from these sectors to improve the educational system and societal outcomes.

How does disruption in the current era affect education?

Disruption in the current era is characterized by three key factors: speed, surprise, and student-centered change. These elements drive shifts in the educational landscape, pushing universities towards commercialization, and creating new challenges and opportunities in how education is delivered and perceived.

Why is the role of universities evolving in today's society?

Universities are evolving due to the increased commercialization of education and the growing need for research that supports government and industrial decisions. Universities are being called upon to produce skilled graduates and innovative research to meet the needs of an ever-changing workforce.

What is the significance of collaboration between universities and government?

Collaboration between universities and government is essential for aligning research outcomes with public policy and decision-making. The model highlights the need for universities to engage more with government bodies, ensuring that research is utilized effectively in public services and regulatory frameworks.

How does the Quadruple Helix model work in Bandung's fashion industry?

In Bandung, the Quadruple Helix model is demonstrated by the collaboration between ITB (university), UMKM (government), hijaber communities (community), and local industries like Brudo Foodward. This synergy helps create a strong fashion industry in Bandung by connecting research, policy-making, consumer feedback, and industrial production.

What challenges do universities face in implementing the Quadruple Helix model?

One of the challenges in implementing the Quadruple Helix model is bridging the gap between universities and government. There is often a disparity in how research is utilized by government agencies, and universities need to ensure that their research directly impacts policy and decision-making.

How do universities address the changing dynamics of the job market?

Universities need to prepare students for careers that may not yet exist, as future job markets are increasingly unpredictable. This requires a focus on developing both hard and soft skills that can adapt to evolving job roles, alongside fostering a mindset of resilience in the face of uncertainty.

What role do soft skills play in the future job market?

Soft skills are crucial for future job markets because they enable individuals to adapt to change, collaborate effectively, and solve complex problems. In an era of rapid technological and societal change, soft skills like communication, leadership, and critical thinking will be key to long-term career success.

What is the role of students in the Quadruple Helix model?

In the Quadruple Helix model, students are positioned as both subjects and objects. They are seen as active participants in the educational process (subjects) while also being shaped by the demands of the job market and societal needs (objects). The model stresses the importance of preparing students to engage with both academic and practical aspects of their education.

What does the 'uncertainty' in the current era mean for education?

Uncertainty in today's era refers to the unpredictability of the future, especially in the job market. As technological advancements and societal changes occur rapidly, educational institutions must adapt to these shifts, ensuring that students are equipped with the skills and adaptability required to navigate an uncertain future.