Tomorrow, tomorrow and tomorrow: the “silent” pillar

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is, quite simply, to sound a clarion call; to encourage educators to focus on the markets in which they function and to be vigilant in their unrelenting in their pursuit of quality.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper argues that this ebullient market space will engender a host of new providers prepared to exploit the market through lower quality offerings. The challenge to higher education is continuing to hold the “high ground”.

Findings

Most accreditation agencies are thorough in their evaluation of faculty and curriculum. But none considers the quality of the student body to be a matter worthy of evaluation. This implicit denial of the importance of the “student” in the process profoundly weakens the accreditors’ claims of “value”.

Originality/value

This is a “practical” paper at its root. As an industry, we all risk the devaluation of our currency when we fail to protect it. The MBA and other graduate degrees in management and business represent a robust currency today but these degrees are coming under assault on many fronts by those who would capitalize on the investment of others.

Citation

Wilson, D.A. (2007), "Tomorrow, tomorrow and tomorrow: the “silent” pillar", Journal of Management Development, Vol. 26 No. 1, pp. 84-86. https://doi.org/10.1108/02621710710720121