This book explores the roles and purposes of higher education in modern, complex societies and the importance of competences in this respect.
Although public debate in Europe could give the impression that the sole purpose of higher education is to prepare for the labour market, this important role is complemented by at least three others: preparation for democratic citizenship, personal development and the development of a broad and advanced knowledge base. This work draws on the experiences in both Europe and North America to underline that the discussion is not in fact about which of these different purposes is the “real” one; they are all important, and they coexist.
ISBN: 978-92-871-6777-4
Available in English