Top business school Deans say digital disruption is a both threat and an opportunity
The online learning revolution will shape business education in 2017.That’s according to several of the world’s top business school Deans contacted by BusinessBecause.
“It’s time we stop asking if online education will happen; it has happened,” said Scott DeRue, Dean, University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business.
Online learning has exploded in recent years, spurred by the advent of massive, open online courses in 2012. And as more managers question the value and cost of a traditional campus MBA, business schools are investing in online learning environments and digital-only degrees.
“Programs will need to be better tailored to individual needs,” said Andrew Likierman, Dean of London Business School.
Online learning is also enhancing the in-person, residential experience for students on-campus.
“Technology is going to become more integrated in the classroom and the overall learning experience in the next couple of years,” said Idalene Kesner, Dean of the Kelley School of Business at Indiana University.
Business schools are already using it for “flipped-classroom” teaching, role-play exercises and global projects.
Yet universities have been critiqued for not innovating their teaching methods and models quickly enough.
Schools face a common threat in new digital-first education providers such as Coursera, edX and Udacity.
“We must innovate or die,” said Eugenia Bieto, Director-General, ESADE Business School.
Judy Olian, Dean, UCLA Anderson School of Management, said: “Some schools won’t or can’t change, and we’ll see more business schools shrink or shutter their full-time MBA programs.”
Meanwhile, the insecurity caused by the immigration rhetoric of US president Donald Trump, is expected to accelerate the use of online learning for global projects.
“With the uncertainty surrounding US-global relations…We’ll see an increased use of technology to connect with international businesses and academic partners to work on global projects,” said Kelley School’s Idalene.
Bill Boulding, Dean of Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business, highlighted the need for global cohesion as globalisation comes under attack in the aftermath of Trump’s election.
The upheaval in international affairs caused by Trump and Brexit represents a threat to the foundation of global business education.
He said: “More than ever business schools need to produce leaders who have the ability to bring people who are very different together to work toward a common goal.”
Student Reviews
Duke University Fuqua School of Business
Supportive atmosphere
The professors at Duke university exhibit exceptional commitment to the success and well-being of their students by ensuring their academic growth and fostering a supportive social atmosphere. Moreover, the entire community is recognized for its amicability and inclusiveness.
Diversity
The people or the students are without a doubt Duke's greatest asset. While all students are driven to succeed, they are also enthusiastic about a variety of hobbies. You run across a huge lot of diversity. It is the ideal example of a school with well-rounded students and the ideal balance of campus life in a metropolis.
Happy to school
All I could ever hope for is Duke University. That really epitomizes the "work hard, play hard" philosophy that elite colleges frequently pursue. Even though you'll have a lot of schooling to complete over the week, it's simple to keep focused because all of your friends are putting in similar amounts of effort. Many events taking place on and around campus on the weekends provide a great way to unwind. The combination of demanding academics and traditional college fun strikes the perfect balance.
Good schooling
Living, eating, learning, and developing who you want to be as an adult are all fantastic at Duke. I participated in student athletics, and I couldn't have asked for a better interaction with the faculty and other students. I appreciate all of the help I get from the Duke community more than anything. Furthermore, the teachers take the time to get to know you, and the lectures are diverse and demanding (if you do the same). I'd give it a 10 out of 10.
Beautiful School, Nice Classes
DU remains one the greatest and best universities that I have ever stepped in. The school is beautiful and neat. The classes are spacious and also very nice. I enjoyed attending my Lectures in those lecture halls. I also loved the Lecturers because of the good work they did. The university also has very good dorms that are given to students on first come first serve basis and they are affordable
Amazing experience
I received my B.S. in Biology and B.A. in Global Health with a minor in Chemistry from Duke University. I was able to grow as a student, scientist, and global health advocate with the help of my friends, professors, and other mentors I met along the way. A lot to learn if you look and ask, a great place to learn for those who want to learn.
whirlwind of growth and change
An amazing 2 years, with covid and everything else happening Duke has been a place of growth for me. The courses , classes were one of a kind, online and on campus. But the valuable lessons learned in the classes are irreplicable. The students are amazing here, so much diversity , I had no problem fitting in. The teachers are down right brilliant and so helpful. Don't be afraid to ask them anything. Graduated with my MBA with Duke and now my future awaits.
One of the best for Business students
Graduated with an MBA. The classes were very insightful and engaging. The staff are very easy to deal with. The teachers and students, are truly amazing people. Grateful to all the people I've met along the way at Duke. I've learnt a great deal that will help me in my future endeavors. The campus itself is a marvel, it is beautiful.
The university campus is awesome
I graduated with a masters degree in Religious Studies from Duke University. One thing I really liked about the university is its huge campus. It is spread in a large area with a lot of greenery and also have the facilities of reading rooms for single person also. My department building was very well taken care of. The library is immensely populated with books for all your needs. The faculty is very nice to students. The classes are equipped with latest technology to cater the needs of students. The University also provides room rentals for international students. They are very well maintained and priority is given to the International students for a comfortable stay there. There are weekly events conducted by the University as well as Student clubs for the entertainment of students. Anybody can take part in them and show their talents. I enjoyed my degree and I graduated in 2021 and was very happy that I had graduated from a reputed University.
Program Flexibility and Vibrant Campus Life
Duke University is renowned for its rigorous academic programs and vibrant campus life. The university offers a diverse range of majors and research opportunities, supported by world-class faculty.
What I particularly liked about Duke was its strong sense of community and the wealth of extracurricular activities available to students. The campus is beautiful, with top-notch facilities and a supportive atmosphere that fosters both personal and academic growth.
Overall, I would highly recommend Duke University for its excellent educational offerings and strong alumni network. If you're looking for a place that challenges you academically while offering numerous opportunities for personal development, Duke is an excellent choice.
