Student Engagement: Towards A Critical Policy Sociology. Issue 1 (March 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Tomlinson, Michael
• Is Part Of: Higher education policy. Volume 30:Issue 1(2017)
• Page Start: 35
• Page End: 52
• Publication Date: 2017-03
• Subjects: policy sociology -- neoliberalism -- performativity -- engagement -- studentship; Universities and colleges -- Periodicals; Higher education and state -- Periodicals; Education, Higher -- Periodicals; 379
• DOI: 10.1057/s41307-016-0035-3
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0952-8733

Abstract

Abstract This article develops a critcal policy analysis of the student engagement agenda, exploring its establishment as a key policy framework in HE and why it has developed such momentum. Based on a critical policy sociology approach, this article analyses the levels through which student engagement can be conceptualised: macro, meso and micro. At the macro-level, the concept can be seen as partly aligned to the market-driven and massified institutional context and informed by New Public Management policy levers intended to enhance the performative value of contemporary universities. At the meso-level, student engagement has been instituted by policies and practices evaluated by a range of performance measures that purportedly capture the efficacy of engagement practices. At a micro-level, it presents issues around students' relationship with institutions in light of their changing role. If student engagement policy and practice is able to elevate students as active co-producers of self-directed learning, they may also potentially affirm their role as regulatory customers.