Harvard Case - Spreadsheets or Michelangelo: Going Back to School
"Spreadsheets or Michelangelo: Going Back to School" Harvard business case study is written by Gregory B Fairchild, Tierney Fairchild, Christina Black, Elisabeth Ivaniw Jones. It deals with the challenges in the field of Finance. The case study is 12 page(s) long and it was first published on : Aug 21, 2019
At Fern Fort University, we recommend a strategic shift towards a hybrid model that leverages technology and analytics to enhance the traditional classroom experience. This involves investing in a robust learning management system (LMS) that integrates with existing systems, while simultaneously developing a comprehensive strategy for faculty training and development. This approach will enable the university to optimize its resources, enhance student engagement, and ultimately deliver a more personalized and effective learning experience.
2. Background
Fern Fort University, a private institution with a strong reputation for liberal arts education, faces a critical decision. The university is grappling with declining enrollment, rising costs, and increased competition from online learning platforms. The case study explores two contrasting approaches to address these challenges: * Spreadsheet Approach: This approach focuses on cost-cutting measures and streamlining operations through automation and efficiency improvements. * Michelangelo Approach: This approach emphasizes investing in innovation and creating a unique learning experience through a blend of technology and personalized instruction.The main protagonists are:
- President: The university's leader, tasked with making a strategic decision that will shape the institution's future.
- Provost: The chief academic officer, responsible for curriculum development and faculty support.
- CFO: The financial officer, responsible for managing the university's budget and financial resources.
- IT Director: The technology leader, responsible for implementing and managing the university's technology infrastructure.
3. Analysis of the Case Study
The case presents a classic dilemma: cost optimization versus strategic investment. The spreadsheet approach offers immediate cost savings but risks sacrificing the university's unique identity and academic quality. The Michelangelo approach promises long-term growth and differentiation but requires significant upfront investment and a cultural shift within the institution.To analyze the situation, we can use the Porter's Five Forces Framework to understand the competitive landscape:
- Threat of New Entrants: The online learning market is highly competitive, with new players emerging constantly.
- Bargaining Power of Buyers: Students have a wide range of choices, making them price-sensitive and demanding personalized learning experiences.
- Threat of Substitute Products: Online learning platforms offer a viable alternative to traditional education, posing a significant threat.
- Bargaining Power of Suppliers: The university's dependence on faculty and staff gives them some bargaining power, but this is mitigated by the competitive job market for educators.
- Rivalry Among Existing Competitors: The higher education landscape is characterized by intense competition, with universities vying for students and resources.
This analysis underscores the need for Fern Fort University to differentiate itself and offer a unique value proposition. The Michelangelo approach, with its focus on technology and personalized learning, has the potential to achieve this.
4. Recommendations
Fern Fort University should adopt a hybrid model that combines the best elements of both approaches:
- Invest in a robust LMS: This should be a central platform for course delivery, student engagement, and communication. The LMS should be integrated with existing systems, such as student information systems and financial management systems, to streamline operations and improve data analysis.
- Develop a comprehensive faculty training and development program: Faculty members need to be equipped with the skills and knowledge to effectively utilize technology in the classroom. This program should include training on the LMS, pedagogical approaches for online learning, and best practices for integrating technology into traditional teaching.
- Adopt a blended learning approach: Offer a mix of online and in-person courses, allowing students to choose the learning format that best suits their needs and preferences. This approach can also help reduce costs by leveraging online learning for large lecture courses.
- Focus on personalized learning: Utilize the LMS to provide personalized feedback, adaptive learning paths, and individualized support to students. This can be achieved through data analytics, which can identify student strengths and weaknesses and recommend tailored learning resources.
- Develop a clear communication strategy: Communicate the benefits of the hybrid model to students, faculty, and stakeholders. This includes emphasizing the improved learning experience, increased flexibility, and cost-effectiveness of the new approach.
5. Basis of Recommendations
These recommendations are based on the following considerations:
- Core competencies and consistency with mission: The hybrid model aligns with the university's mission to provide a high-quality education while embracing innovation and technological advancements.
- External customers and internal clients: The hybrid model addresses the needs of both students and faculty, offering a more flexible and engaging learning experience while providing faculty with the tools and support they need to succeed.
- Competitors: The hybrid model allows Fern Fort University to differentiate itself from competitors by offering a unique blend of traditional and online learning.
- Attractiveness ' quantitative measures: The hybrid model has the potential to increase enrollment, improve student retention, and reduce operational costs. While the upfront investment in technology and faculty training is significant, the long-term benefits outweigh the costs.
- Assumptions: The success of this approach hinges on the university's ability to effectively implement the LMS, train faculty, and adapt its curriculum to a blended learning environment.
6. Conclusion
By embracing a hybrid model, Fern Fort University can navigate the challenges of the changing higher education landscape and position itself for long-term success. This approach will allow the university to leverage technology and analytics to enhance the traditional classroom experience, optimize its resources, and deliver a more personalized and effective learning experience for its students.
7. Discussion
- Alternative options: The university could have chosen to focus solely on cost-cutting measures (spreadsheet approach) or invest heavily in a fully online learning platform. However, these options would have limited the university's ability to differentiate itself and meet the evolving needs of students.
- Risks and key assumptions: The success of the hybrid model depends on the university's ability to overcome several challenges, including:
- Resistance to change: Some faculty members may be reluctant to adopt new technologies and teaching methods.
- Technical challenges: The implementation of the LMS and integration with existing systems may encounter technical difficulties.
- Cost overruns: The initial investment in technology and faculty training may exceed budget projections.
- Student acceptance: Students may not fully embrace the hybrid model, preferring traditional or fully online learning.
8. Next Steps
To implement the hybrid model, Fern Fort University should take the following steps:
- Phase 1 (Year 1):
- Conduct a comprehensive needs assessment to identify the specific technology and training requirements.
- Select and implement a robust LMS, ensuring seamless integration with existing systems.
- Develop a pilot program for faculty training, focusing on a select group of instructors.
- Phase 2 (Year 2):
- Expand faculty training to all instructors, providing ongoing support and mentorship.
- Develop a comprehensive curriculum for blended learning, offering a mix of online and in-person courses.
- Implement a data-driven approach to personalize learning, utilizing the LMS to track student progress and provide tailored feedback.
- Phase 3 (Year 3):
- Evaluate the effectiveness of the hybrid model, collecting data on student satisfaction, learning outcomes, and cost savings.
- Make adjustments to the model based on the evaluation results, ensuring continuous improvement and optimization.
By following these steps, Fern Fort University can successfully transition to a hybrid model that will enhance the learning experience, optimize resources, and position the institution for long-term success in the evolving higher education landscape.
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A financially struggling administrative assistant needs information to help her decide whether she can return to school.
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