Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: Public Engagement (PE) has gained significant traction in recent years, serving as a bridge between higher education institutions and society at large.It refers to the various ways in which institutions connect with the public, generating interest in research, enhancing understanding of research outcomes, and fostering collaborative partnerships.This essay examines the role of PE in the Dutch higher education system, which operates within a binary structure comprising Universities of Applied Sciences (UAS) and Research Universities (RU).Historically, these institutions have differed in their approach to research and public engagement, with RUs prioritizing academic research and UAS focusing on practical, industry-oriented education.By applying Cultural-Historical Activity Theory (CHAT), this essay explores the engagement dynamics of students, teachers, and researchers within these institutions, highlighting the differences in their interaction with practice-based research and its implications for fostering a culture of PE across the sector.The essay concludes by addressing the historical, institutional, and structural challenges faced by UAS in engaging with research and offers recommendations for enhancing PE within the Dutch higher education landscape.
Institution: Open University of the Netherlands
Language: English
Subfield: Education
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
SDG: Quality education
Open Access status: gold
OpenAlex ID: W4412426919