Adam Schipper Reflects on Academia and the Challenges Ahead

Adam Schipper, a part-time professor at Brandon University, recently shared insights into his academic journey and the evolving landscape of higher education. A graduate of École secondaire Neelin High School, Schipper holds a PhD in Philosophy and teaches online from Montreal. His research focuses on the philosophy and politics of housework and domestic labour, a topic that resonates with contemporary discussions about societal roles.

Life in Academia

In a recent conversation, Schipper described his typical day, which begins with breakfast and a transition to teaching via online platforms. He balances student engagement with his research, often preparing for classes while managing correspondence. “It’s quite the balance I have to strike, and there’s a lot of self-discipline involved,” he noted.

Schipper’s research is primarily individual, although he has collaborated on interdisciplinary projects, including one with a hospice nurse examining clinical nursing through a philosophical lens. His academic path took a significant turn when he pursued his PhD at Queens University in 2018 after working various jobs. “It was a journey back into academia where everything kind of aligned for me,” he said, reflecting on his positive experiences despite the disruptions caused by the pandemic.

Navigating Challenges in Higher Education

Schipper emphasized the increasing difficulties faced by academics, particularly those entering the job market. “Every year, there are fewer jobs and more applicants,” he explained. This trend leads many trained academics to seek careers outside of traditional university roles. He mentioned his own ongoing search for full-time teaching positions while currently engaged in part-time work. “I’m fortunate that I have a little more teaching experience than others,” he added.

The conversation also touched on the impact of technology on education. Schipper expressed concerns about how tools like ChatGPT are reshaping student engagement. “It feels like students are using AI to shortcut their learning,” he stated. This raises questions about the true value of education, which he believes should encourage deep intellectual exploration rather than mere credential acquisition.

“Philosophy is a rigorous pursuit of truth,” Schipper said, advocating for its role in developing critical thinking skills. He argues that exposure to philosophical inquiry can lead to personal growth, enabling individuals to confront complex questions about existence and morality.

As Schipper navigates the challenges of teaching in both online and in-person formats, he remains committed to fostering genuine connections with his students. He often records lectures and provides flexible access to course materials to accommodate diverse student schedules. “I try to appeal to their humanity instead of appealing to the machine,” he remarked, highlighting the importance of personal engagement in education.

Ultimately, Schipper’s journey exemplifies the complexities of modern academia. His reflections underscore the necessity for educators to adapt to changing environments while remaining steadfast in their mission to inspire and educate. “We live in a cruel and uncaring world,” he concluded, emphasizing the importance of mutual understanding and care in transforming society.