The elements of a superior uni
RANKINGS and ratings by well-respected bodies are a straightforward and effective point of reference when you need to make a decision on which university to attend.
The Rating for Higher Education Institutions in Malaysia (Setara) is one of several methods that the public can use to judge the calibre of a university.
However, how does one classify a top university?
More than the basics
The most blatant aspect that may come to mind when considering factors affecting university standing is the availability of quality facilities.
Universities with well-equipped campuses will clearly attract more students as they can provide a choice learning environment that caters to students’ needs.
Be it top-notch science laboratories, industrial design workshops or professional audio recording rooms, universities that are able to offer cutting-edge equipment in various learning fields allow students to maximise their learning.
Having access to tools that professionals use in their daily practice also means that students would not be caught by surprise when they are catapulted into the throes of working life.
Besides facilities that help students get a leg up in their area of study, elite universities understand that a campus filled with beautiful and comfortable spaces for both rest and work could make or break a student’s learning journey.
Providing a cosy and pleasant physical environment is important because it helps students focus on what is truly important – gaining knowledge and building skills.
Cosmopolitan mentors
Higher learning institutions that draw in and employ international staff members are seen as more effective than those that do not.
The presence of a diverse faculty naturally leads to a more wellrounded and dynamic learning climate.
Opinions, experiences and knowledge from different countries and cultures around the world pool in one place and are ripe for the picking – enabling students to mature and open their minds vicariously.
Lecturers with divergent skills and ways of thinking are also able to suggest different educational initiatives they have seen or experienced in their own countries.
If everyone came from the same background, there would be an apparent lack of originality and creativity.
Faculty who hail from different nations are also more likely to know experts from their respective fields whom they can get in touch with to benefit the university.
Likewise, leading universities that have a vast network of professional contacts can secure more collaborations and industrial placement opportunities for their students.
Alliance between authorities
The best universities have the best industry input. Tertiary education establishments that isolate themselves from association with real-world experts are setting students up for failure.
Theory taught in a lecture hall by staff with little practical experience would only mould graduates who are by no means ready for the challenges of reality.
Pre-eminent universities are frequent collaborators with industry experts and often have highly respected guest speakers or lecturers visit their campuses.
It is also palpable that establishments teeming with activity involving industry players are more likely to be known to the public as a solid centre of learning.
This will influence more companies and professional organisations to take in graduates from these universities – for internships or full-time employment.
Furthermore, students who network with authorities from their field of study while at university may receive priceless specialist guidance and possible career opportunities later on.
It can be seen that institutions rich with public and private sector partnerships are often at the forefront of higher education distinction.
A basin of knowledge
Be it top-notch science laboratories, industrial design workshops or professional audio recording rooms, universities that are able to offer cutting-edge equipment in various learning fields allow students to maximise their learning.
What is a mark of a great university that is distinct from a school or learning centre? Ask any academician and he or she will tell you that it is scholarly research.
Extensive and detailed research by students and the faculty are critical to the growth of industries and knowledge at large.
Inquiries and investigations by tertiary education institutions exist to explore, build upon or find solutions to real issues.
Professionals in the working world often refer to published university studies to inform their practice and solve problems they face in their careers.
Companies and community groups can also approach universities to collaborate with them on specific research projects.
Top institutions of higher learning typically have research partnerships with professional bodies, governmental organisations and other distinguished universities.
Now that you are informed of the several factors that constitute a quality institution of higher learning, get out there and begin the search for the university of your dreams.