STEM vs. Soul: The Battle for Higher Education
Raul Villamarin Rodriguez
VP @ Woxsen University ➡️ Where Global Learning Meets Indian Ambition ➡️ Cognitive Technologist ➡️ Decoding the Mind Code: Building AI for Humans
The liberal arts, encompassing fields like philosophy, history, literature, and the arts, have long been a cornerstone of higher education. In India, however, the emphasis on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields has often overshadowed the liberal arts. This shift has raised questions about the future of liberal arts education in India and its role in producing well-rounded graduates.
Several factors have contributed to the decline of liberal arts education in India. One significant reason is the increasing emphasis on vocational training and job-oriented courses. As the Indian economy grows, there is a greater demand for skilled professionals in STEM fields, leading to a surge in enrollment in engineering, computer science, and management programs.
Moreover, the perception that liberal arts education is less practical and doesn't lead to lucrative careers has also discouraged students from pursuing these subjects. This perception is often reinforced by parents and society, who prioritize STEM fields as more secure and rewarding career paths.
Despite the decline, liberal arts education remains crucial for producing well-rounded graduates. Liberal arts courses develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills, which are essential for success in any field. These skills enable individuals to adapt to changing circumstances, think creatively, and work effectively in diverse teams.
Furthermore, liberal arts education fosters a broader understanding of the world and different cultures. This cultural literacy is increasingly valuable in today's interconnected global society. Liberal arts graduates are also more likely to be engaged citizens, capable of contributing to their communities and making informed decisions about important social and political issues.
To revive liberal arts education in India, several measures can be taken. First, it is essential to challenge the perception that liberal arts education is less practical. By highlighting the transferable skills developed through liberal arts courses, institutions can demonstrate their value to employers and students alike.
Second, universities can integrate liberal arts education into STEM programs. Interdisciplinary courses that combine STEM subjects with liberal arts can provide students with a more holistic understanding of their field and enhance their critical thinking skills.
Third, institutions can offer incentives for students to pursue liberal arts majors, such as scholarships, research opportunities, and career counseling. By making liberal arts education more accessible and attractive, universities can encourage more students to explore these subjects.
While the decline of liberal arts education in India is a concern, it is essential to recognize the enduring value of these subjects. Liberal arts education plays a vital role in producing well-rounded graduates with the critical thinking, communication, and cultural literacy skills needed to succeed in today's complex world. By promoting the importance of liberal arts education and implementing effective strategies to revive these programs, India can ensure a bright future for its higher education system.
Full Professor in Business Organization. Fellow HEA. Academic Director. Lecturer & Researcher about #EntrepreneurshipEducation #DigitalCompetence #HigherEducation
2moInt2resting discussion. This dylema is not only in India but in all world. The question is if work environments will value this skills as it does with technological ones.
Comandante /Major at Spanish Civil Guard / Clinical Expert / Logistics Expert
2moLa búsqueda de trabajo es importante sin duda, pero…qué sería de la humanidad si pierde uno de sus mayores valores? La apreciación, la curiosidad, el discernimiento, el placer por la belleza…nos descubren quienes somos y cómo cultivarnos para transformarnos, el espíritu crítico nos da alas, libertad. Con la pérdida de la sensibilidad se van muchas virtudes por falta de desarrollo, si deseamos educar a personas completas no debemos obviarlo.
Professor , Circular Design Thinking at Symbiosis Institute of Operations Management
2moRightly put ! In fact with the growing business, social and environmental complexities, holistic understanding and system thinking approach to problem solving is the way ahead. Hopefully with NEP policy in place, infusing liberal art subjects and triggering both the left and the right brain functions would be possible!
Professor of Management and Business Studies (Woxsen University). Head of the Centre for Technology & Innovation Eastern Europe (Woxsen Executive Education & Consulting Division) WEECD
2moWell captured indeed Sir! I have spent enormous amounts of time coaching and mentoring brilliant STEM graduates on how to communicate, network and socially integrate into their Organisations. Self sell skills are another important area as many young Graduates lack confidence and are not able to interact with peers, let alone Seniors. This is a global problem and I agree with your proposed interventions! Another first for Woxsen, I assume.......