In this episode of the CX Insider Podcast, we’re joined by Professor Sam Grogan, Pro Vice-Chancellor of Education and Student Experience at Loughborough University. We dive into the future of education, the essential skills students need for a 40-year career, and how universities must evolve to meet the demands of a rapidly changing world.
Episode Summary
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Preparing Students for a 40-Year Career in a Changing World
One of the biggest questions facing universities today is how to prepare students for careers that will span four decades in an unpredictable world. According to Professor Grogan, the answer lies in two key pillars: technological skills and social-emotional intelligence.
With industries rapidly shifting due to automation, AI, and global disruptions, students need to be adaptable. While technical knowledge is crucial, soft skills like resilience, empathy, and curiosity will differentiate successful graduates. “The ability to learn, unlearn, and relearn at pace” is what will keep students relevant, Grogan explains, referencing futurist Alvin Toffler’s insights. He also highlights the importance of interdisciplinary learning, where students from various fields collaborate to solve real-world problems rather than working in traditional academic silos.
Universities Must Evolve to Stay Relevant
Higher education institutions are not immune to disruption. Professor Grogan emphasises that universities must move away from outdated models and embrace agility, particularly in curriculum design. The current system often struggles to keep pace with industry needs, with some course developments taking years to implement.
To bridge this gap, Grogan is advocating for “point-of-need learning”, a model where universities rapidly create and deliver micro-credentials, professional education, and tailored corporate training programs in a matter of weeks rather than years. By working closely with businesses and industries, universities can ensure students graduate with skills that are immediately valuable in the workforce.
He also challenges universities to rethink assessment methods, moving beyond rote memorization towards fostering innovation, leadership, and adaptability. “If we sit in our disciplines and just protect them, we’re missing the opportunity to create solutions that truly impact the world,” he says.
AI in Education: Embrace, Don’t Fear
Artificial Intelligence is transforming industries, and higher education is no exception. While some institutions resist AI’s integration into learning, Professor Grogan argues that pushing back against AI is like pushing back against the sea—it’s pointless.
Rather than banning AI tools like ChatGPT, universities should teach students how to use them responsibly. He acknowledges concerns about academic integrity but emphasises that AI should be seen as a supplement, not a replacement, for critical thinking. “Just as Google didn’t replace libraries, AI won’t replace human intellect—it’s just another tool in the learning process,” he explains.
For businesses hiring graduates, Grogan suggests revising job descriptions and person specifications to reflect the evolving skills landscape. Employers must test for adaptability, cultural fit, and problem-solving abilities rather than just technical knowledge.
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This article summarises podcast episode 114 “Are Customer Surveys Dead?” recorded by CX Insider.
Written by Elysia Filaitis