Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: http://hdl.handle.net/1959.3/48660

Title

Swinburne in 2015

Author(s)

Young, Ian

Abstract

Swinburne has achieved much over the past century. The University has articulated a vision as a dual-sector institution which is well recognized within Australia and, increasingly, internationally. It has developed an enviable reputation for the quality of its teaching and learning and has a growing research reputation. Swinburne is widely seen within the sector as a progressive institution and a growing force within the Australian tertiary education sector. Although there is much of which the University should be proud, we exist within an increasingly competitive international education environment. Therefore, it is important that the University not rest on its achievements but strive to further develop its position. We should be bold in our desires. What we need to do is well summarised by Pierre Trudeau: “The past is to be respected and acknowledge, but not worshipped. It is our future in which we will find greatness”. This paper outlines some goals which Swinburne may strive to achieve and the means by which these goals could be achieved. It is intended to engage stakeholders in a debate as to the future of the University. In engaging in this discussion it is important that we “think big” but that we also articulate how expansive goals may be achieved. This paper outlines a vision for Swinburne in 2015 (the timeline for our current Statement of Direction). If this vision is achieved, Swinburne will be clearly recognized as one of Australia’s leading research Universities. In addition, our education and training missions would be explicitly articulated and recognized. We would provide an educational experience built on our technology and business base and vocational in its outcomes. Quality education and quality research, however, must complement each other in this future vision. To achieve such a goal will require an uncompromising attitude across the institution. Excellence will be encouraged and rewarded and, at the same time, underperformance will be addressed.

Publication type

Discussion paper

Research centre

Swinburne University of Technology. Chancellery

Publication year

2007

Keyword(s)

Australia;  Budget;  Colleges;  Competition;  Development;  Diversity;  Forecasting;  Growth;  Higher education;  Innovation;  International reputation;  International students;  Learning;  Operations management;  Performance management;  Research excellence;  Research ranking;  Strategic planning;  Students;  Success;  Swinburne University of Technology;  TAFE;  Teaching;  Technical and Further Education;  Universities;  University funding;  University governance;  Vocational education

Publisher

Swinburne University of Technology

Publisher URL

http://www.swinburne.edu.au/chance/vc/messages_opinions.html

Copyright

Copyright © 2007 Ian Young.