![\"\"](\"http:\/\/www.demos.co.uk\/system\/cover_pictures\/300\/large\/Picture_2.png?1245715615\" "\\"Edgeless")
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\u2022 Collaboration is vital for the survival of universities<\/p>\n
\u2022 Existing funding arrangements stifle universities’ potential for creativity and innovation<\/p>\n
\u2022 The US model of higher education is an example of how cooperation and competition can breed excellence<\/p>\n
\u2022 The most competitive institutions are the most collaborative<\/p>\n
Just some of the discussion points from a recent symposium on the future of Higher Educaiton facilitated by Education Guardian and JISC see here<\/a> for the Guardian’s report.
\n‘The context for discussion was set by the recent Demos pamphlet by Peter Bradwell, The Edgeless University,<\/a> which argues that the current financial crisis in higher education presents an opportunity for the “rebirth” of universities if they are willing to collaborate, embrace technology and offer more flexible provision.’
\nThe Edgeless University –\u00a0 is well worth a read and while it only begins to scratch the surface (presumably it had to be in the ‘quick reads’ category for important people to find the time to read it) it does make a good start. The Guardian debate itself seems to have taken it further even if the timing is not good with UK Higher (and Further) Education, sandwiched bewteen economic gloom and a general\u00a0 election. The\u00a0 danger is that what should be seen as a great\u00a0 opportunity may instead be seen as a threat.<\/p>\n