Rethinking Teaching and Learning in Higher Education: Preparing for the “New Normal”

The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in major changes in education at all levels as educational institutions were forced to resort to remote teaching. While there are many success stories shared about effective shifts to remote teaching, there are also clear indications that the digital divide prevented access to education for some. There is a realization, however, that there must be a transition from traditional ways of teaching and learning to embrace technological advances while ensuring quality and access. Although the International Commission on the Futures of Education (ICFE) provides a vision of what teaching and learning might yet become (ICFE, Reimagining our futures together: a new social contract for education. UNESCO, 2021), the “new normal” for higher education is still emerging. A key consideration in the transition is quality assurance. Higher education institutions must ensure accessibility, relevance, value for money, and a positive transformative experience for all staff and students. This conceptual chapter explores perspectives on what is considered the new normal. The aim is to promote reflection on the future of teaching and learning in higher education. This chapter will answer the question “What are some key teaching and learning considerations for higher education institutions as they prepare for the new normal in higher education?”