Modern Australian Magazine

University funding debates should be broadened to reflect their democratic purpose

  • Written by Dominic O'Sullivan, Associate Professor of Political Science, Charles Sturt University

In 2017, Murdoch University successfully applied to the Fair Work Commission to terminate its Enterprise Agreement. From the National Tertiary Education Union’s (NTEU) perspective this was an attack on staff salaries and conditions and showed industrial relations law was deeply one-sided.

For university management having the agreement terminated was a legitimate industrial strategy, justified by a need for flexibility and cost containment. The wider trade union movement supported the NTEU perspective. The Murdoch case contributed to the development of a much wider campaign: “Change the Rules”. Changing the rules of industrial relations for better pay, fairer conditions and job security. Reversing the trend towards high rates of casualisation and low wage growth.

But the rules of the game, as far as universities are concerned, are set in a wider context. The context of what universities are for and what they are intended to achieve. While their economic purpose is reasonably clear, contemporary Australian policy debates focus primarily on how and by whom their teaching is funded. This diminishes understanding of universities’ democratic purpose and wider social mission.

What is the university for?

The principal polarising point in the university funding debate is whether demand or central planning should determine the number of people taught. The second is the proportion of the cost that should be met by the state vis-à-vis the student.

Read more: Why our university funding debate wouldn't make sense to Germans

While a proportion of universities’ per student public funding must support research, the funding model’s general assumption is that universities are labour market production lines. Research policy debate is confined to the related ideal of “industry” purchasing university research to reduce the contributions government must make to the cost of university research. Universities have an incentive to see research as simply a fund-raising activity.

These rules need to change in the interests of stronger democracy. Higher education’s current policy focus understates the idea of universities as public institutions serving a public good. Universities have important and essential contributions to make to democracy’s better functioning. The idea that democracy requires an educated population is as old as democracy itself.

University funding debates should be broadened to reflect their democratic purpose Academic freedom is important because evidence and reason matter to the formation of public opinion. Paul Miller/AAP

Research to support economic prosperity is important, but so is research to support public understanding and capacity to contribute to policy debates. Australia’s research Engagement and Impact evaluation policy understates this by measuring engagement principally in terms of the economic value of relationships with research “end users”.

Academic freedom

The university’s most important strength is its intellectual independence, and the academic freedom that assures that independence. Research for government or for industry is not independent. This kind of consultancy work may be legitimate and important, but it ought not compromise the presumption that knowledge cannot fully advance, and the democratic system work as it should, unless research is ideologically independent. It must also be contestable and brought into the public domain for evaluation and debate, and to inform public opinion and decision-making.

There is a public good argument to fund knowledge creation for this democratic purpose, which means academic freedom must be defended at all costs. Yet the University of Melbourne, for example, took steps to weaken that essential characteristic of university research when it proposed removing from its Enterprise Agreement the commitment that its academics would “engage in critical enquiry, intellectual discourse and public controversy without fear or favour”. This suggests an institution willing to compromise its democratic mission.

Read more: As Melbourne University staff strike over academic freedom, it's time to take the issue seriously

Academic freedom is important because evidence and reason matter to the formation of public opinion. They matter to the analysis of “fake news”, to counter-balancing an increasingly partisan Australian private news media at the same time as financial support for the national public broadcaster is being reduced.

Research that is not independent, that is conducted with fear and favour, is unscholarly. It compromises intellectual integrity and ensures knowledge cannot be a public and democratic good. Research for public good and research sold for private benefit can co-exist, but the latter cannot override the public mission of a public institution.

Universities play an essential role in the development of vocational and professional skills for both the individual and the common good. But if this is all they do, if they are not independently and objectively discovering and disseminating new knowledge for the public good, a society is presuming ignorance as a substitute for robust democracy.

University funding debates should be broadened to reflect their democratic purpose In a democracy, university graduates should leave with an understanding of power, where it comes from and why, who has it and why. Mick Tsikas

Understanding power

There is a public good argument for people to graduate from university with a well-developed understanding of power. Where it comes from and why, who has it and why, and how one influences it for society’s betterment. Highly developed critical thinking skills, the ability to write clearly and present well-informed and reasoned arguments are essential to influencing power. They ought not be the skills of an elite who have the money to buy the time to read, think and deliberate.

This is partly an argument for raising the status and availability of a liberal arts education, either on its own or in conjunction with a professional or vocational degree so that the social imperative to ‘be’ something when you grow up is still satisfied: an idea inculcated in children even before they start school.

One may reasonably wish to be a nurse, a teacher or an accountant but one should also expect to be a citizen. A nurse should be able to contribute to health policy debate. A teacher ought to know more than what must be taught this week. An accountant should know the democratic and social context in which business operates.

Authors: Dominic O'Sullivan, Associate Professor of Political Science, Charles Sturt University

Read more http://theconversation.com/university-funding-debates-should-be-broadened-to-reflect-their-democratic-purpose-97075

TENS Machine: Relieve Pain Without Oral Medications

People who suffer from chronic pain or acute pain from an injury may constantly rely on oral medications. However, this may pose a few risks, such...

What Careers Are Most Needed In Australia?

If you’re seeking a new career adventure, you’ve come to the right place. You may be looking to upskill in your current career, considering sw...

Cosy Winter Winners for a picturesque Winter Escape

From fewer crowds to fewer mosquitos and cosy campfires galore, more and more holidaymakers are enjoying the benefits of winter camping and travel...

Blind Ambition: How to Match Your Blinds to Your Decor Style

Do you take pride in your home? You should, as it's where you spend the most time. Where else can you relax, unwind and truly be and feel yourself...

THE PROCESS OF INVESTIGATING SOIL AND ROCK PROPERTIES

Any civil engineering project must include a geotechnical investigation. It entails assessing and characterizing the qualities of the soil and roc...

Mining Equipment Companies: How to Find a Reliable One

Mining is an important sector in the economy of Australia, accounting for around 10% of the country's GDP. There were 420 mining activities in sit...

Personal Trainers in Bondi Create Bursts of Fitness in Busy Lives

In the bustling beachside suburb of Bondi, where health and fitness take center stage, the role of a personal trainer has become increasingly vital in...

Power BI Consultants Provide Business Dashboards and Insights

Power BI consultants use data analysis software to help businesses gain insights. The software allows companies to create customized visualization...

Rebuilding Trust: Steps to Repair a Broken Relationship

In the vast sea of relationships, even the sturdiest ships can face storms that test the strength of the bond between the people on board. Regular d...

The Rise of Preventive Dentistry in Modern Dental Clinics

In today's fast-paced world, maintaining good oral health has become increasingly important. A visit to the dental clinic is no longer just about addr...

Nightlife For The Adventurous: Outdoor Activities And Nighttime Adventures

It's a universal truth that adventure doesn't keep office hours. In fact, for the truly adventurous, the setting sun is a call to a different kind o...

Is Your Beloved Tree Dying? These Are The 4 Signs

There is nothing worse than watching a prize tree on your property come to the end of its natural life. Trees can live for hundreds of years, howeve...

Holidays & Travel

Cosy Winter Winners for a picturesque Winter Escape

From fewer crowds to fewer mosquitos and cosy campfires galore, more and more holidaymakers are enjoying the benefits of winter camping and travelling during the colder months.  Reflections Holiday Parks make...

How Holiday Property Management Transforms Ownership Experience

The holiday season is a time when people want to escape the hustle and bustle of their daily lives and unwind in a relaxing and comfortable environment. This is why...

Discover the Benefits of Holiday Letting on the Stunning Gold Coast

The Gold Coast, Australia's premier holiday destination, attracts millions of tourists each year. Whether it's the pristine beaches, world-class theme parks, or vibrant nightlife, there's something for everyone on the...

Escape everyday life in outstanding Massy Greene Premium New Cabins

New Premium Cabins at Reflections Holiday Parks Massy Greene showcase the natural beauty of Brunswick Heads and bring influx of travellers to the region!   Six new Premium Cabins at Reflections Holiday...

Melbourne's Transit System: A Quick History

In March 1853, the first railroad tracks were laid down in Melbourne, the first tracks in a line that was to travel from Melbourne to the nearby port of Sandridge...

The Importance of Regular Servicing of Caravans

Introduction Caravan servicing is an essential part of caravan ownership, ensuring that your caravan is safe, roadworthy, and functioning properly for your next adventure. Regular servicing can help prevent breakdowns, prolong...

Transfer In The Maldives: Details Of Booking From Wiotto.com

The Maldives has a number of features for those who are planning a trip to the paradise islands. One of the important issues is the transfer. An expert in booking...

The History and Symbolism of the Ireland Flag

The flag of Ireland is a familiar sight to many people around the world, with its distinctive green, white, and orange stripes. But beyond its eye-catching design, the flag also...

The Best Guide for Tuscany Bike Tour

The central Italian area of Tuscany is renowned for its beautiful scenery, gentle hills, and vineyards. A popular way to explore the area and experience its amazing scenery is by...

Fashion & Beauty

Experience Ultimate Comfort with Memory Foam Slip-Ons

Introduction Memory foam slip-ons have become increasingly popular in recent times as they offer superior comfort and cushioning, making them perfect for people who spend long hours on their feet or...

As The Extraordinary History of Tudor Watches

The long and remarkable history of Tudor Watches, a Rolex subsidiary brand, dates back to the early 20th century. Hans Wilsdorf, the man who started Rolex, founded the company in...

Tips For Living With Rosacea: Diet, Lifestyle & Skincare Routine

If you’ve been diagnosed with rosacea, chances are you’re looking for ways to manage it. However, managing rosacea can be tricky since the condition varies so much from person to...

Everything You Need to Know About this Leaf Leather Wallet

In today's world, there is a growing demand for sustainable fashion, and one of the most innovative solutions is the emergence of eco-friendly leather alternatives. One such alternative is leaf...

Unveil and Explore the Service of Aesthetic Clinic Around the World

Travelers can explore the world of aesthetic clinics from the comfort of their own homes with the intriguing voyage Beauty Unveiled: Exploring Aesthetic Clinics Around the World. This investigation gives...

The Power of Collagen for Skin in Keing it Healthy and Glowing

Collagen is a protein naturally produced by our bodies and makes up a significant portion of our skin, bones, tendons, and ligaments. It is responsible for maintaining the strength and...



NewsServices.com

Content & Technology Connecting Global Audiences

More Information - Less Opinion