Welfare Reform on the Web (February 2001): Education - Overseas

THE MARKET IN AUSTRALIAN HIGHER EDUCATION AND THE CONCEPT OF STUDENT AS INFORMED CUSTOMER

G. Baldwin and R. James

Journal of Higher Education Policy and Management, vol.22, 2000, p.139-148

Australian government attempts to enhance the quality of higher education through the encouragement of market forces are based on the assumption that students are informed customers making rational choices of higher education courses and institutions. Article examines some of the problems associated with this approach, in particular the limitations on applicants' knowledge and understanding of the higher education system. Proposes remedies based on careful differentiation of institutional missions and approaches, and accurate dissemination of these differences to students.

WHY STUDENTS ARE NOT (JUST) CUSTOMERS: (AND OTHER REFLECTIONS ON LIFE AFTER GEORGE)

G. Sharrock

Journal of Higher Education Policy and Management, vol.22, 2000, p.149-164

Article explores the tensions in universities between the forces of marketisation and managerialism and the older values of academic freedom and collegiality. Argues that the market model cannot be applied to universities in its entirety because they are not just service providers to student customers but also standard setters and regulators.