The future of the university

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to discuss the cost of basic or textbook knowledge that is asymptotically approaching zero.

Design/methodology/approach

New ways to access such knowledge and to receive academic credit are challenging the mature academic institutions and acting as a disruptive innovation.

Findings

These alternatives will create competitive models, some current institutions will fade or be absorbed and the present institutions will/are undergoing substantive changes in what is delivered and how and what will emerge as the new value proposition.

Originality/value

This knowledge is both fungible and transferable across geo‐political boundaries including the walls of the Ivory Tower.

Citation

Abeles, T.P. (2011), "The future of the university", On the Horizon, Vol. 19 No. 4, pp. 239-244. https://doi.org/10.1108/10748121111186305