Exploring Transformational Academic Approaches in Private Higher Education: Insights from Caviner Ruiters
At the SAPHE Conference 2024, Caviner Ruiters, a dedicated PhD candidate in Econometrics from Belgium Campus iTversity, captivated the audience with his presentation: Communities of Practice in Private Higher Education Institutions: Evaluating Transformational Academic Approaches to Improve Teaching and Learning.
Transforming Private Higher Education Through Communities of Practice
Ruiters’ presentation delved into the transformative role of Communities of Practice (CoP) within Private Higher Education Institutions (PHEIs). These collaborative networks encourage shared learning, knowledge exchange, and collective growth, challenging the traditionally isolated frameworks of PHEIs.
Leveraging principles of social constructivism and learning theory, Ruiters explored how CoPs dismantle institutional silos and foster a culture of interactivity and peer support. He emphasised the pivotal role of innovative pedagogical models and ICT tools in creating dynamic, engaging learning environments for educators and students alike.
Key Takeaways and Recommendations
Fostering Collaboration: CoPs enable academic staff to share best practices, collaborate on challenges, and develop a shared sense of identity.
Encouraging Professional Development: Integrating CoPs into PHEIs promotes ongoing professional growth and knowledge sharing, driving continuous improvement in teaching practices.
Adapting to Labour Market Demands: By cultivating more collaborative and innovative academic environments, CoPs equip institutions to better meet the evolving needs of the workforce.
Through a comprehensive literature review, Ruiters demonstrated that CoPs are not only effective in improving teaching outcomes but also instrumental in building a sense of community among educators. His findings lay the groundwork for further research into how these collaborative frameworks can reshape private educational settings to benefit both students and faculty.
A Vision for Collaborative Academic Excellence
Ruiters’ work highlights Belgium Campus iTversity’s commitment to academic excellence and innovation. His research underscores the importance of creating environments where educators and students can thrive through collaborative learning and shared professional growth.
This presentation sets a vital foundation for ongoing exploration into how CoPs can redefine the future of private higher education, enhancing teaching practices and enriching student learning experiences in an ever-changing academic landscape.
-Caviner Ruiters
