What is the greater good? The discourse on public and private roles of higher education in the new economy

Brad Hensley, Mika Galilee-Belfer, Jenny J. Lee

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

21 Scopus citations

Abstract

This study examined the ways that the 'public good' of higher education is being conceptualised as economic benefits and cost/benefit rationalities in the current economic downturn. Based on the case of Arizona in the United States, a discourse analysis of speeches was performed on the way public, state and institutional leaders described ways that the public higher education system must respond in the changing global economy with less state funds directed towards public institutions. The findings demonstrate the changing public nature of higher education from emphasising individual over societal benefits, thus also reflecting changing funding sources.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)553-567
Number of pages15
JournalJournal of Higher Education Policy and Management
Volume35
Issue number5
DOIs
StatePublished - Oct 2013

Keywords

  • economic benefits
  • individual benefits
  • public and private education
  • societal benefits

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Education
  • Public Administration

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