Teaching for transformation: The 4E’s of teaching future-ready graduates

Abstract

Universities are being asked to anticipate future societal and economic needs, and provide students with transformative educational experiences that equip them for their lives and careers. In a rapidly changing world, this is a daunting task; nonetheless, universities have begun to consider what capabilities students are likely to need if they are to be employable and future-ready. The consensus among universities, expressed in their graduate profiles, includes complex capabilities such as abilities for collaboration, communication, global citizenship, problem solving, critical thinking, innovation, leadership, adaptability, resilience and lifelong learning. However, there is uncertainty about how such capabilities can be taught and nurtured.