In his thought-provoking article, ‘Universities as Innovation Ecologies for Human and Planetary Flourishing’, Otto Scharmer challenges the traditional role of universities, advocating a transformative approach to higher education. He argues that universities must evolve into dynamic ecosystems that actively engage in regenerating society and the planet, as well as disseminating knowledge.
From knowledge transmission to transformative praxis:
Scharmer traces the historical evolution of universities, highlighting their shift from medieval institutions focused on religious instruction to modern entities emphasising research and economic productivity. However, he argues that, in the face of current global crises such as climate change, social inequality and institutional mistrust, universities must transcend their traditional roles. They should become centres for ‘transformation literacy’, equipping students with the skills to navigate complexity and drive systemic change. Bridging the Knowing-Doing Gap
Bridging the knowing-doing gap
A significant concern raised is the disconnect between awareness and action. Despite widespread recognition of global challenges, many individuals feel powerless to effect change. Scharmer emphasises the need for educational models that bridge this gap by fostering agency and empowering learners to translate knowledge into meaningful action.
Reimagining educational paradigms
Scharmer critiques traditional management education, identifying three prevalent overemphases:
1. Overvaluing knowledge: Prioritising the accumulation of information over embracing uncertainty and not-knowing. 2.
2. Overvaluing comfort: Avoiding discomfort, which is essential for genuine learning and transformation.
3. Overvaluing action: Favouring immediate action without sufficient reflection leads to reactive rather than proactive solutions. He advocates for a balanced approach that integrates cognitive understanding with emotional intelligence and practical engagement.
He advocates a balanced approach that integrates cognitive understanding, emotional intelligence, and practical engagement.
Universities as living ecosystems:
To actualise this vision, Scharmer proposes several shifts:
• From classrooms to real-world engagement: Learning is embedded in real-life contexts to address societal challenges directly. • From head to heart and hands:
• From head to heart and hands: Integrating intellectual, emotional and practical learning to foster holistic development. • From isolation to interconnection: fostering connections and collaboration.
• From isolation to interconnection: Encouraging collaboration across disciplines and with external communities to co-create solutions.
These shifts aim to transform universities into ‘innovation ecologies’ that nurture both individual growth and collective well-being. •
Embracing humility and humanity
Scharmer highlights the etymological link between ‘humus’, ‘humanity’, and ‘humility’, suggesting that, just as humans originate from the earth, universities should be firmly rooted in real-world issues. This grounding fosters a sense of humility and a commitment to serving society and the planet. Embracing Humility and Humanity
Scharmer draws attention to the etymological connection between ‘humus’, ‘humanity’, and ‘humility’, suggesting that, just as humans originate from the earth, universities should remain grounded in real-world challenges.
This grounding fosters a sense of humility and a commitment to serving society and the planet.
Building social middleware
To facilitate these changes, Scharmer introduces the concept of ‘social middleware’ — the infrastructures and networks that enable collaboration between academia and society. By investing in such systems, universities can foster environments that encourage innovation, reflection, and meaningful action. In conclusion, Scharmer’s article calls for a profound reimagining of higher education.
In conclusion, Scharmer’s article calls for a profound reimagining of higher education. By embracing their potential as innovation ecosystems, universities can play a pivotal role in addressing the complex challenges of our time and fostering a more just and sustainable future.