EN
The author presents a sociological reflection on development dynamics of higher education in Poland in the times of transformation. The paper focuses mainly on phenomena which cause concern, assuming that positive processes are well discernible and do not require further complements. The whole article tackles issues related to learning and its development as well as education and teaching problems. The Silesian Voivodship, with its state and non-state higher education institutions, is a territorial frame of reference and an empirical background. Notes on institutions of learning ware preceded by reflections on teaching and educational situation in the voivodship. They primarily concern non-state higher education schools forming a group of late newcomers in relation to state institutions. Additionally, the paper discusses threats to learning and higher education institutions brought about by modern world. It also presents the scope of Polish research and learning achievements against the background of achievements of international academic research. The paper concludes with a discussion on the role, aims, and tasks of universities.