Research assessment in Singaporean higher educationL Changing educational accountabilities in a context of globalisation

Authors

  • Lesley Vidovich University of Western Australia

Abstract

In this article, research assessment in Singapore’s higher education sector is viewed as part of the broader trend towards changing educational accountabilities in a context of globalisation. However, while on the one hand, recent Singaporean policies resonate with a neo-liberal market ideology where accountability policies are designed to enhance international competitiveness, on the other hand Singapore’s policies also reflect its own unique context. That is, Singapore’s policies and practices in relation to accountability in general, and research assessment in particular, are embedded in its own historical, economic, social and cultural traditions. There is a “price to pay”, however, for competing with the West, especially in terms of preserving relevant research for local community development. “Global”-“local” tensions are clearly manifest as Singapore increasingly turns towards America as a model in its drive to enhance research productivity.

Author Biography

Lesley Vidovich, University of Western Australia

Lesley Vidovich is an Associate Professor of Education at the University of Western Australia. Her primary research focus is the field of education policy and practices—both in the schooling and higher education sectors—with a special interest in education policy development in a context of globalisation and internationalisation. Papers stemming from her research (especially in the areas of accountability/quality and curriculum policy) have been widely published in the United Kingdom, Continental Europe, North America, Asia and Australia.

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Published

2008-05-01

Issue

Section

General Refereed Papers