A Social Inquiry Analysis of Post-Pandemic Higher Education: A Futures Perspective

Abstract

This paper explores higher education futures post the Corona virus pandemic. It uses futures and social inquiry approaches to explore how post-pandemic times will impact higher education. As a research method, social inquiry connects across social systems to explore complex relationships and impacts, providing a broader perspective of potential influences and synergies of social phenomenon. Social inquiry research shifts focus away from causal affects to explore patterns of connectivity and is therefore an appropriate methodology for futures inquiry. An examination of 141 trends associated with COVID-19 impacts provided the data for futures analyses through a Causal Layered Analysis approach. Three guiding questions including how we can address the challenges and embrace the opportunities of post-pandemic times to create more equitable, inclusive and sustainable higher education futures were explored. Results point to the need to rethink our social metaphors for more equitable and desirable higher education futures. Implications of this research suggest the need to examine and revision the purpose and values of higher education to meet the needs of individuals and society.