Editorial — Reconfiguring Higher Education: New Learning Spaces, Practice Integration, and Social Responsibility

Abstract

This editorial introduces the second of two companion special issues emerging from the 2025 Annual Conference of the German Society for Higher Education Research (GfHf). The issue examines how higher education transformation is realised through new learning spaces, practice integration, institutional partnerships, transfer-oriented research, and patterns of participation. Across six contributions, it highlights the importance of autonomy, collaboration, boundary crossing, and supportive organisational structures while also addressing coordination challenges and educational inequalities. Together, the articles show that meaningful transformation depends not only on innovative formats and technologies, but also on social responsibility and institutional arrangements that enable equitable and meaningful participation.