Work

Policy and Research Engagement in UK Higher Education. Policymaker and Expert Perspectives and Priorities

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: ABSTRACT Policy and research engagement is a timely topic for researchers, decision‐makers, and higher education institutions that aim to promote engagement and impact. Examination of the complex research‐policy relationship in the higher education sector has been largely overlooked. This paper addresses this issue by presenting findings from in‐depth interviews with 11 UK higher education policymakers and experts on how higher education researchers can engage with the policy process in the UK context. It also highlights the views of interviewees about policy priorities for UK higher education that may shape higher education research agendas. With relevance across fields of expertise, the paper also discusses the role of independent research in shaping policy. The paper discusses barriers to engagement, research generation and use, and the role of independent research in the broader policy evidence landscape. To conclude, we suggest possible pathways for more productive engagement between researchers and policymakers.

Source: Higher Education Quarterly

DOI: 10.1111/hequ.70015

Authors: Georgiana Mihut, Sevda Ozsezer‐Kurnuc, Rebecca Morris, Tom Perry, Emma Smith

Institutions: University of Warwick, Mi̇lli̇ Eği̇ti̇m Bakanliği

Language: English

Topic: Research, Science, and Academia

Subfield: Information Systems and Management

Field: Decision Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Quality education

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $2,900