Differentiation remains a topic of conversation in the sector.  While it is true that differentiation by some definitions already exists–by admission average, by region, by the emphasis placed on teaching and research, by size and resources–it is also the case that all students in Ontario can be assured of the quality of their programs.  Not all universities offer the same programs, but what is offered is comparable big school to small by virtue of the IQAP process.

If we follow the presumed path that will leave us with three tiers in Ontario (U of T; U15; the rest), I’m not sure what problem has been solved, esp. if the tiers are entrenched such that universities can’t be re-seeded. Are we opposed to competition (have we given up on capitalism and evolution)?

If the conversation is about the delivery of undergraduate education, then students need to receive sufficient preparation for second degrees (professional schools, graduate schools, college programs, apprenticeships), so we are potentially undertaking a process that we return us to the current state.

I have many questions, one is, Where are the U15 graduates going, esp if they want to pursue a life in academia? Ontario has in some way subsidized their education.  Presumably the best academicians blend current research with teaching.  If ‘the rest’ is defined as teaching only, then there will be no faculty–graduates will pursue careers in the US or in other provinces.  Why is that better? Or is that the endgame?

In Heather Mallick’s column, she highlights some of the concerns that are fuelling the discussion:  the cost of education delivered in “traditional” ways; the presumed savings of MOOCs; the difficulty of transferring between institutions (colleges and universities); the unpreparedness of students (entering university and, in some cases, upon graduation).  While I agree that these are the recurring themes, most of these themes will not be addressed by differentiation.

http://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2013/09/20/ontario_universities_are_being_reined_in_mallick.html#