I am struck by this quote: "There is nothing more valuable for a nation than allowing its citizens to explore their potential," from @CBCCalgary article on the proposed changes to post secondary funding. A thread on #abed. cbc.ca/news/canada/ca… #abpoli #ableg 1/n
To me, that quote gets at a fundamental question: What is the purpose of universities? I’m sure we all have different views. As an academic and instructor, I view my role as producing knowledge to benefit society, and sharing that knowledge with students and the public. 2/n
Many students attend university to get a degree to get a job (I did!). It’s also a place to explore new ideas and interests, and your own potential. The quote I started with reflects that purpose, which I think is one of the most important functions of higher ed. 3/n
This means many aspects of university outcomes are intangible. As a person that switched majors in undergrad, I may look like a “failure” from the perspective of my first program. But what I learned about my interests and skills was invaluable (and intangible). 4/n
Final thought: performance-based funding isn’t necessarily bad or good. Like any policy choice, design will be incredibly important. I hope that the performance metrics can reflect the tangible and intangible benefits that universities and other higher ed bring. #ableg /fin
