Khon Kaen University’s New Educational Philosophy: Revolutionizing Learning to Cultivate Graduates of the Future
Introduction
In today’s rapidly evolving and dynamic world, Khon Kaen University (KKU) recognizes the critical importance of transforming its educational system to produce highly capable graduates, ready to meet the demands of society and enhance national and international competitiveness. Consequently, Khon Kaen University has established a new “Educational Philosophy,” as per University Announcement No. 606/2566, dated March 13, B.E. 2566 (2023 CE).
This philosophy serves as a compass for curriculum design, teaching and learning management, and holistic student development. This White Paper aims to communicate this philosophy to faculty members, students, staff, and employers of KKU graduates, fostering a shared understanding and reinforcing confidence in the university’s educational provision.
Khon Kaen University’s Educational Philosophy
“Educational provision that focuses on three learning outcomes: Knowledge & Skills, Ethics & Characters, and Wisdom, through a new educational paradigm emphasizing the Learning Paradigm, to empower learners to respond to development and enhance national competitiveness.”
The Heart of Transformation
This philosophy is built upon three core pillars:
Knowledge & Skills
Encompassing up-to-date and essential knowledge, coupled with crucial skills for professional careers and life in the 21st century.
Ethics & Characters
Focusing on nurturing virtue, morality, professional ethics, integrity, and adherence to the law, to cultivate graduates who are good citizens.
Wisdom
Referring to the ability to think analytically, synthesize information, solve problems creatively, and engage in lifelong learning, derived from the application of knowledge and experience.
The cornerstone of this philosophy is the transition to a “new paradigm emphasizing the Learning Paradigm.” This signifies a revolutionary shift from a teacher-centered approach (Teaching Paradigm) to a truly student-centered approach (Learning Paradigm).
Delving into the New Paradigm (Learning Paradigm): 5 Components of Change
The educational provision under KKU’s new Learning Paradigm involves transformations across five key dimensions:
1. Shifting Mission and Purpose
From: Teacher-Centered
“Transfer knowledge from faculty to students.”
To: Student-Centered
“Elicit student discovery and construction of knowledge.”
Example: Implementing teaching and learning models like the “Flipped Classroom,” where students engage with initial content independently before class, using in-class time for deeper discussions, problem-solving, or advanced activities.
2. Transforming Teaching/Learning Structures (Outcome-focused)
From: Credit-Based
“Degree equals accumulated credit hours.”
To: Competency-Based
“Degree equals demonstrated knowledge and skills” as defined in the curriculum.
Example: Competency-based curriculum and the provision of experiential learning opportunities from real-world situations.
3. Transforming Teaching/Learning Structures (Content-focused)
From: Discipline-Isolated
“Organizing content based on independent disciplines or departments.”
To: Cross-Disciplinary
“Organizing content with cross-disciplinary/departmental collaboration for interleaving.”
Example: Curricula featuring cross-disciplinary integration, enabling students to grasp a holistic view and apply knowledge from diverse fields.
4. Evolving the Nature of Faculty Roles
From: Lecturers
“Faculty deliver content in lectures, lab, and seminars.”
To: Facilitators
“Faculty design learning environments and methods for student learning.”
Example: Curricula where faculty transition from being instructors (Teachers) to becoming mentors (Coaches) or learning facilitators.
5. Revising Criteria for Success (Assessment)
From: Summative Focus
“Assessment of learning,” primarily focused on summative evaluation of final achievements.
To: Formative Development
“Assessment for learning,” emphasizing continuous feedback to foster ongoing student learning and development.
Example: Curricula incorporating Formative assessment, utilizing its results to enhance student learning.
Impact and Value: Building a Future with Sustainable Education
The adoption of this new philosophy and paradigm will yield significant benefits:
For Students
They will be developed into Active Learners, equipped with critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a capacity for lifelong learning, enabling them to adapt to change and drive innovation.
For Faculty
They will assume roles as designers of learning experiences, inspirers, and coaches, dedicated to maximizing student potential.
For Khon Kaen University
The university will produce high-quality graduates who meet the needs of employers and the job market, thereby enhancing its reputation and academic excellence.
For Employers and Society
They will gain a workforce possessing knowledge, skills, ethics, and wisdom, ready to propel the nation’s economic and social development sustainably.
Conclusion and The Path Forward
Khon Kaen University’s new educational philosophy is not merely a policy shift; it is a profound revolution in the learning culture. The university is committed to driving this transformation to achieve tangible outcomes, relying on the collaboration and dedication of all stakeholders—faculty, students, staff, alumni, and the wider community.
We are confident that with this clear philosophy and direction, Khon Kaen University will cultivate graduates who are not only knowledgeable and skilled but also possess strong ethics, character, and wisdom. They will be prepared to serve as vital forces in advancing our nation and competing effectively on the global stage.
Khon Kaen University invites everyone to be part of actualizing this “Educational Philosophy” for the future of our graduates and the future of Thailand.