The rise of smart cities

The future: a period of time yet to come, what will happen or exist, an expectation of success and progression.

With such a simple definition, ‘the future’ – however changeable – is monumental in both meaning and impact.

So, what does this mean for the lives we lead and how exactly do we navigate through such uncertainty?

This issue of the University of Derby Magazine explores a range of different perspectives and challenges concerning the future of our city, country and wider world, including the role technology has to play in elevating and advancing the cities we inhabit and whether Derby could become a ‘smart city’.

We also consider the ecological impact of our pets on the planet, examine how society is facing a challenging future for social care, investigate the future of the tourism industry in a post-Brexit era, and question whether social media platforms and their army of influencers can survive the test of time.

Headshot of Kelly Tyler, Editor, smiling

While the future – with its mystery and unpredictability – can appear daunting, what is clear is that with it comes many great opportunities to seize.

Kelly Tyler
Editor

You will also gain insight into the competitive and fast-moving education sector, which faces the unprecedented challenge of ensuring people have the skills, knowledge and experience required in preparation for jobs that do not yet exist, in a world that generations are yet to inherit.

While the future – with its mystery and unpredictability – can appear daunting, what is clear is that with it comes many great opportunities to seize.

We hope this issue provokes thoughts about what the future may look like for you, the sector in which you work, and the environment in which you live – and encourages you to think about how you embrace the opportunity to make your mark.

Download this issue of the University of Derby Magazine (this pdf document is not fully accessible but the contents within it can be viewed via the articles on this page).

Articles

Animated image of colourful high rise buildings
The rise of smart cities

We investigate how technology and data impact a city’s efficiency, sustainability and welfare of its residents, and whether Derby could become a 'smart city' in the future.

Headshot of Richard Gerver smiling
Impact of our alumni

World-renowned educationalist Richard Gerver discusses his new role as Chair of the University's new Alumni and Membership Advisory Board.

Countryside landscape with fields and hills as seen from on top of a high hill
Britain's tourism strategy - success or failure?

Brendan Moffett, Director of our Centre for Contemporary Hospitality and Tourism, explores whether the government's long-term tourism strategy for Britain has been a success.

Theatre students holding umbrellas whilst performing on stage at Derby Theatre
Derby Theatre as a Learning Theatre

Our collaboration with Derby Theatre has resulted in the creation of the UK's first Learning Theatre. We look at what this means for our students, city and communities within it.

Adult hands cupping child's hands in a caring manner
Who cares about the future of care?

With the UK care system said to be in crisis, we explore whether the partnership between Higher Education and the care sector could provide a solution.

Abstract waves with gradient colour, from purple to teal
Future-proofing universities

Russ Langley, Chief Performance Officer at the University, explores future-proofing strategies and why universities must implement them in order to thrive.

Animated rocket with three overlapping line charts coming from the tail end
Tackling the talent drain

The UK is facing a serious skills gap and as the fourth industrial revolution looms, we look at whether our education system is geared up to provide the flow of talent that industry is crying out for.

Woman wearing dress and sunglasses smiling within a large Polaroid frame cut-out that she's holding up
Is it the beginning of the end for online influencers?

Brands use influencers as a way of promoting their products but with new advertising guidelines in place, will this be the end of social media influencers?

Wayne Madsen wearing cricket kit, holding cricket bat and helmet after a game
5 minutes with... Wayne Madsen

Wayne Madsen gives insight into his career, the recent success of Derbyshire County Cricket Club, and how professional cricketers spend their time during the off-season.

Crime investigation board with red string linking photos and post-its
Why are we so obsessed with true crime?

With true crime stories capturing the interest of so many, we investigate why they are so compelling and the impact on people and locations associated with high-profile crime cases.

Mugshot of dog in front of a prison height chart
Are our pets costing us the earth?

As we all focus on making our homes and lives as ‘green’ as possible, we consider the environmental impact of our pets.

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Research Roundup

Our recent research looks at conserving and restoring the world's coral reefs, improving mental health through nature, and supporting Service children to progress in school.

Students sat at desk working with soldering irons, circuit boards and a laptop
Driving the apprenticeship agenda

As we continue to drive the apprenticeship agenda in the region, we look at the impact of the Apprenticeship Levy and how we are forging links with small and medium businesses.

Headshot of Chris Wright, Chief Executive Officer of Football South, New Zealand
Alumni Profile - Chris Wright

Chris Wright graduated from the University in 2008. We ask him about his career in New Zealand, his top tips for success and advice he would give to current students.

Students smiling and talking at a computer desk
Student Success

A successful career change and an internship in Japan proved to be life-changing experiences for two of our students.

Two student ambassadors in orange hoodies smiling whilst holding polaroid-style frame around faces
Our City, Our County, Our Community

As we continually look for ways to support local communities, the city and county, we highlight some of the projects we have been working on and supporting over the past year.

View of tower with reflective panelling at Kedleston Road site, with a backdrop of blue skies and whispy clouds
Final Remarks

Professor Malcolm Todd reflects on the successes at Derby over the past year and discusses how we are continuing to make Higher Education accessible to all.

Don’t forget to share your thoughts using #DerbyUniMagazine on social media or by emailing editor@derby.ac.uk.