Journal of Co-operative Studies, 51(2), 5-18

Abstract

Globalisation, marketisation, monetisation, and the growth of hyper-capitalism have all impacted on modern universities. As mass higher education has developed, universities have become severely marginalised from their communities and original purposes. The idea that mass participation can solve the problems on its own has proved illusory. The output of graduates does not compensate for the poor quality of jobs available for many and for the elitist assumptions which drive selection for the ‘top’ institutions and induction into the leading professions. The learning and teaching we now have is not sufficiently engaged with the critical issues facing our society. Some of these issues are to do with belonging, community, identity, nationhood, and culture whilst others include poverty, exclusion, migration, war, terrorism, global climate change, and environmental degradation. These issues raise questions which test our humanity and the appropriateness of our universities and their curricula. The other key concern is the impact of technology on ‘life and labour’ which is abolishing meaningful work for many and making some traditional communities obsolete. The internet and digital life must be democratically controlled and we must understand its complexity. The proposed Co-operative University could become an ‘engaged university’ with a distinctive learning programme which addresses the issues raised above. A critical pedagogy is needed as well as a critical curriculum.

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