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Undergraduate programs are shifting to accommodate a more digitally connected, hands-on, collaborative workforce.
Learners of the future are transforming the post-secondary, undergraduate education landscape like no one else in history. According to the Canadian census, in 2021, Gen Z, born 1997-2012, already comprised nearly 20% of the workforce. A report by BuildForce Canada indicates that this percentage is expected to rise as Gen Z ages into the workforce and baby boomers retire. Generation Alpha, born 2010-2024, is not far behind.
Often shirking the top-down learning and training model popular with previous generations, Gens Z and Alpha are both comfortable with technology and often prefer digital and online learning tools.
“Tomorrow’s students are accustomed to consuming content across multiple platforms and formats and engage well with blended learning approaches that combine traditional teaching with digital resources,” says Dr. Bashir Makhoul, University Canada West (UCW) president and vice-chancellor.
They are also pragmatic and career focused. “They want to acquire knowledge and skills directly applicable to real-world situations and their future careers,” Dr. Makhoul adds. “Post-secondary programming that includes internships and practicums, hands-on experience through work-integrated learning, and specific skills training is ideal for this cohort of learners.”
Since it was founded in 2004, UCW has been known as a university that offers greater flexibility in how students received their education. It uses a quarter-term system, allowing motivated students to complete their undergraduate degree more quickly. Its mainstay MBA program was designed to include both in-person and online learning and be flexible enough for students to continue working while completing their studies.
Susan McLachlan, project coordinator for Excellence in Manufacturing Consortium’s (EMC) WILWorks Post Secondary Program, adds digitally connected, diverse, accustomed to knowledge at their fingertips and interested in social justice to the list of student traits.
“Customization of learning to serve different learning styles is critical,” McLachlan says. “Students want training that is practical, provides hands-on application of knowledge and explores the ‘why’ and impact of learning outcomes.”
EMC is Canada’s largest manufacturing consortium. It has developed a number of trendsetting, industry-savvy solutions for engaging young people in trades and manufacturing related careers with comprehensive, hands-on education and training.
To set students up for success in today’s rapidly evolving job market, undergraduate programs should also emphasize the development of a wide range of soft skills, including verbal and written communication, teamwork and collaboration, and adaptability and flexibility.
“By integrating these soft skills into our curricula, undergraduate programs can better prepare students for the demands of the modern workplace, where the ability to collaborate, communicate and adapt is often just as important as technical expertise,” Dr. Makhoul says.
University Canada West prepares students of the future with three undergraduate programs—Bachelor of Commerce, Bachelor of Arts in Business Communication and Associate of Arts—designed to help students gain the practical skills and industry-relevant knowledge required for launching a career and to prepare students for a successful career path across diverse industries.
“Outside of the classroom, our Career Development Centre provides a range of professional development resources and support to both students and our alumni,” Dr. Makhoul says. “The team works with students to help them explore career options, develop job search strategies and connect with potential employers.”
Wendy Gray, WILWorks Post Secondary Program team lead, says that although it existed prior, the global pandemic caused educators, students and learning programs to launch and continuously evaluate and develop a more hybrid blended learning approach while re-designing programs and courses.
“I expect identifying a blended model and what it includes will continue to transform the future,” she says. “Tomorrow’s learner is creative, thinks critically, is a problem solver and relies heavily on collaboration. Learning programs will have to respond to and nurture these traits.”
EMC’s programming provides short-term work placements to explore careers youth may not be aware of or haven’t considered. It also leaves students with a solid foundation in Skills for Success—learning that helps in work and in life.
One example is Manufacturing Foundations, which includes self-directed e-learning modules in accountability, adaptability, attitude, problem-solving, giving and receiving feedback, intro to team building, difficult interactions, communication, health and safety.
“Upon completing Manufacturing Foundations and a successful work placement, WILWorks Post Secondary Program students receive a Manufacturing Foundations Micro-credential that recognizes the skills and work experience gained and is recognized by future potential employers,” Gray says.
As a WILWorks Post Secondary Program delivery partner, EMC ensures a stream-lined process for both the employers and the students with an accessible support team that ensures the program meet its objectives to bridge the gap between academia and the workplace.
“Designed to equip students from diverse fields, WILWorks Post Secondary Program prepares them to excel in the Canadian job market,” Gray says. “Through work-integrated learning opportunities, students gain valuable, real-world experience. The program also offers wage subsidies, supported by the Government of Canada, to reduce hiring costs for employers, making it an attractive opportunity for businesses looking to invest in new talent.”
McLachlan adds that education providers should also invest in their staff and communities for continued success. “Continuous professional development for educators is crucial to keep up with evolving educational trends,” she says. “Partnerships with industry leaders can provide students with valuable insights and opportunities.”
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