The Renaissance of Interdisciplinary Learning: A Conversation with Carl Gombrich

Host: Richard Foster-Fletcher, Executive Chair, MKAI.org

Guest: Carl Gombrich, Dean, London Interdisciplinary School

Guest Bio:

Carl Gombrich is a trailblazer in higher education and a passionate advocate for interdisciplinary learning. As Dean of the London Interdisciplinary School (LIS), Carl is at the forefront of reimagining university education to better equip students for the complexities of the modern world.

Prior to joining LIS, Carl was Director of the Arts and Sciences BASc programme at UCL, pioneering innovative approaches to liberal arts education. With a background in mathematics, philosophy, and even opera singing, Carl brings a unique and dynamic perspective to education reform.

Explore more about Carl’s work on his blog and connect with him on LinkedIn.

Episode Title: "The Renaissance of Interdisciplinary Education: A Conversation with Carl Gombrich"

Episode Overview:

In this episode, we’re joined by Carl Gombrich to discuss how interdisciplinary education is redefining the future of higher learning. Carl shares insights from his leadership at the London Interdisciplinary School (LIS), the UK's first university in 50 years to gain degree-awarding powers from its inception. We explore the importance of breadth in education, the challenges of hyper-specialisation, and why rigour and creativity are essential across all disciplines.

Carl’s vision for education is transformative, making LIS a standout institution that values real-world problem-solving, connection-making, and equipping students with the skills to thrive in a fast-changing knowledge economy. Learn more about the pioneering work happening at LIS by visiting their website.

Key Topics of Discussion:

1. Why interdisciplinary education is essential for preparing students to tackle complex, real-world challenges.
2. The role of generalists in fostering innovation and leadership.
3. The cultural and practical shifts needed to adapt education for the knowledge economy.
4. The importance of rigour and creativity in building a robust educational framework.
5. How LIS is setting new standards in higher education with its radical and problem-based learning model.

Key 'Takeaway' Ideas:

1. Interdisciplinary education is a powerful tool for bridging gaps between disciplines and fostering innovation.
2. Students equipped with a mix of quantitative and qualitative skills are uniquely prepared to lead in diverse fields.
3. Universities must evolve to remain relevant in an interconnected and AI-driven world.

The London Interdisciplinary School (LIS) is revolutionising higher education in the UK with its focus on real-world problem-solving and interdisciplinary learning. By combining academic rigour with creativity and practical application, LIS equips its graduates with the skills and mindset to succeed in a fast-changing world. Whether you’re a prospective student, parent, or employer, LIS represents the future of education. Learn more at lis.ac.uk.

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