Disruption and Innovation in Global Higher Education as Viewed Through the Lens of Complexity Theory

Abstract

The focus in 21st century society is knowledge-based: learning is critical, and information will continually become obsolete. The success of global higher education institutions will demonstrate their ability to manage networks of knowledge and to collect, document, and analyze data involving complex systems, thereby exhibiting adaptability and agility with complexity. In addition, technical innovations will alter the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the workplace and society. Yet disruption and innovation are often the menu of the day, creating chaos and disorder. Complexity theory impacts all the critical aspects of global higher education.