The future of education in a wired world

Universities were founded around 1100 and retained their basic mission until mid 17th century when forward-looking research started to enter the institutions. In the mid 19th century when the US land grant institutions were created, universities added new areas of practical or applied research and community involvement. With global access to the Internet, a major moment in the 21st century is occurring that disrupts the very foundations of the academy and academics as independent institutions in all aspects, teaching, research and function in the community at large. No institution will remain unchanged; not all institutions will survive. This article discusses some of the changes occurring and the implications for the future of post-secondary education, globally