Conceptions of the value of higher education in a measured market / Michael Tomlinson

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V. Foreign Higher Education and Education Systems, International Relations, Bilateral Relations
B. Essays, Commentaries, Statements

Author	TOMLINSON, Michael
Title	Conceptions of the value of higher education in a measured market / Michael Tomlinson
Publication year	2018
Source/Footnote	In: Higher education. - 75 (2018) 4, S. 711 - 727
Inventory number	46878
Keywords	Hochschule und Staat : allgemein ; Hochschule und Wirtschaft
Abstract	A critical analysis is developed of the dominant meanings of value in marketised higher education. In policy terms, this has become informed by the logics of the measured market whereby value has become synonymous with economic return and institutional accountability. The notion of value is one which permeates many discussions on the purpose of higher education and the perceived benefits it confers onto individuals and society as a whole. This, however, remains largely implicit and unearthing the specific meaning of value (and values) clearly presents challenges. This article critically examines a variety of concepts relevant to discussion of the value of higher education, including the relationship between value and quality, consumerism, goods and performativity. In each case, it unpacks their meanings and implications for the relationship between students and institutions, particularly at a time when this is seen to be increasingly transactional. It then outlines an alternative value framing to the utilitarian value for money so prevalent in much market-driven policy. (HRK / Abstract übernommen) Tomlinson, Michael, E-Mail: m.b.tomlinson@soton.ac.uk