Structures in tertiary education and training: a kaleidoscope or merely fragments?: research readings

In this eclectic collection of papers, 13 essayists and four discussants consider the complexity of the tertiary education system and its underlying structures. The papers are clustered by themes: how educational matters influence the system's structures; who controls the system; how the system is governed in a competitive environment; and how individuals interact with the system to ensure they get quality offerings. Each theme is considered by a leading thinker in the area of education, policy or economics. Although a wide range of perspectives are offered, one key theme emerges - there is no simple 'market design' which would meet all the objectives of the various elements of Australia's tertiary education system.

Published abstract.

The papers are: Overview / Francesca Beddie (pages 10-13); The public good / Sharon Bell (pages 16-25); What makes education 'vocational' in an integrated tertiary sector / Steven Hodge (pages 26-35); The future of the tertiary sector workforce: a kaleidoscope of possibilities? / Michele Simons (pages 36-47); Discussion: How educational matters influence structures in the system / Kwong Lee Dow (pages 48-58); Education as an industry, and as a product / John Quiggin (pages 60-68); The drivers of industry involvement in VET reform / Richard Jenkins and Ian Curry (pages 69-82); Innovation and industry best practice: why industry skills councils are critical / Robert Dalitz and Di Dibley (pages 83-89); Discussion: Who controls the system? / Robin Shreeve (pages 90-96); How do providers respond to changes in structures in a period of reform? / Kerry Brown (pages 98-107); Mismatched gears: how federal arrangements hinder the integration of the tertiary education sector / John Ross (pages 108-118); A precipitate proposal: a participant's view of structural discussions in post-secondary education / Adrian Marron (pages 119-131); The strategic impact of industrial relations among tertiary education providers / Damian Oliver (pages 132-142); Discussion: Governance of the system in a competitive environment / Jonathan Pincus (pages 143-153); Student choice between VET and university / Yijuan Chen and Juergen Meinecke (pages 156-166); What role does price play in student behaviour? / Michael Coelli (pages 167-178); Regulating for learning in the tertiary education system / Valerie Braithwaite and Sue Fergusson (pages 179-189); Discussion: Interactions with the system / Jeff Borland (pages 190-196). Show less