Views of Educators on the Education System

Abstract

In this paper we review the strengths and weaknesses of the current actuarial education system, from the perspective of educators in Australian universities. Thirteen interviews were conducted with actuarial university teaching staff, providing a complement to recent studies which focus on the perspectives of students. Overall, interviewees consider that the current education system is reasonably effective and robust, with the three part qualification structure involving elements of what might be considered an "ideal" education system. This includes accounting for the characteristics and development of students over time; having general alignment (in parts I and II) between the syllabus and assessments; and developing both technical and generic skills, to some degree. However, there are also various issues to address. This includes insufficient development of generic skills in earlier stages; large variations in the learning experience for students who have different levels of background knowledge and work experience; and some restriction in educational innovation due to the need for adherence to syllabus requirements. Perhaps a key tension is between a desire for education to adapt in line with evolving technology and practice, and a desire to emphasise rigour and depth of fundamental, underlying principles. Various educators, however, consider that an education approach that is open to innovation and flexibility could have benefits to both sides of that apparent divide.