Education 4.0 and University 4.0 from Society 5.0 Perspective

Abstract

Developments in science and industry have a direct impact on human life by contributing to the development of societies throughout human history. From the groups of people struggling to survive by hunting (Society 1.0), learning about agriculture and irrigation has led to the transition to an agricultural society (Society 2.0). The industrial revolution experienced with the invention of the steam engine and the subsequent increasing mechanization led to a rapid transformation from the agricultural society to the industrial society (Society 3.0). Developments in information and internet technologies and Industry 4.0 motivation also accelerated the digital transformation of the industry, and factories switched to the 'smart' concept. After the transformations from industrial society to information society with Industry 4.0, it is aimed to reach Society 5.0 as a new level of social development, where technology will be assimilated and used as a tool to increase the welfare of humanity. In this study, digital transformations (Education 4.0) in the field of education, which are indispensable for sustainable development, and the effects of these transformations on the university ecosystem are discussed. In the continuation of the study, the developments in the University 4.0 process in the world and in Turkey were mentioned and suggestions were made for the higher education system. A situation assessment has been made for University 4.0 from the perspective of Society 5.0 with this study to researchers and administrative authorities, and it is aimed to contribute to the literature with the suggestions presented on this subject. © 2024 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.