A criticism of universities in the past has been that they are excessively focused on research and pay inadequate attention to students. Whether or not it is a rationalisation, one of the stated purposes of the Government’s reforms and the focus on “putting students first” has been to change the balance. Is there a danger of the pendulum swinging too far in the opposite direction? How should universities balance between the demands of excellent teaching, outstanding research and wider engagement with business in the community? And, as different universities adopt different approaches, what risks do they run?
Speakers: Nicola Dandridge, Chief Executive, UUK and Rachel Wenstone, NUS Vice President