Community Governance in Higher Education Institutions
Ronald Barnett in his book "The Idea of Higher Education" says that governance of institutions of higher education which includes policy-making and strategic planning should be an expression of the will of the entire academic community. He states that boards of directors and vice chancellors are primarily interested in financial status, the essentials for operating, and that over endorsing the use of performance indicators and systems of appraisals is likely to diminish the feeling of community throughout an institution. When Barnett uses the term "community of scholars" he means a group of academicians/scholars having an internal culture of sharing and a common set of interests. Developing this "community" in universities can be realised, but can be hampered by managers whose primary focus is the cost and essentials of operating. As I reflect on Barnett's book and statements, I realise that a participatory approach manifested in a collaborative form...