University rankings provide useless answers to the wrong question. The question students should be asking is not which university is "best" but which one is best for them.
Thank you Steven. Another unfortunate dimension of these unhelpful rankings is the way politicians latch onto them and label universities prestigious or where all students should be aspiring. My experience shows that the term prestige is often linked to the oldest universities, who also appear higher up league tables, but may not be providing the best student experience or an appropriate learning journey. Worrying for those of us who aspire to widening access to university and transforming more student lives.
Agreed. In an episode of “Yes Minister,” the old UK TV show, Sir Humphrey tells the Prime Minister that there is a problem concerning our universities. The PM asks, “which one” and Sir Humphrey says “both of them.” (Oxford and Cambridge)
I am working on a book about MBA programs, and opting out of the rankings seems a tall order for most business schools. Students and employers put immense weight on rankings, and schools have responded precisely as you note above: by lying about their numbers and diverting funds to students who will boost rankings.
My own sense is that people put too much weight on rankings. However, I only say that now, after having graduated from the highest ranked school to which I was admitted.
Thank you Steven. Another unfortunate dimension of these unhelpful rankings is the way politicians latch onto them and label universities prestigious or where all students should be aspiring. My experience shows that the term prestige is often linked to the oldest universities, who also appear higher up league tables, but may not be providing the best student experience or an appropriate learning journey. Worrying for those of us who aspire to widening access to university and transforming more student lives.
Agreed. In an episode of “Yes Minister,” the old UK TV show, Sir Humphrey tells the Prime Minister that there is a problem concerning our universities. The PM asks, “which one” and Sir Humphrey says “both of them.” (Oxford and Cambridge)
I am working on a book about MBA programs, and opting out of the rankings seems a tall order for most business schools. Students and employers put immense weight on rankings, and schools have responded precisely as you note above: by lying about their numbers and diverting funds to students who will boost rankings.
My own sense is that people put too much weight on rankings. However, I only say that now, after having graduated from the highest ranked school to which I was admitted.