Student engagement and neoliberalism: mapping an elective affinity

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to argue that student engagement, an important area for research about learning and teaching in formal higher education, has an elective affinity with neoliberalism, a hegemonic ideology in many countries of the developed world. The paper first surveys an extensive research literature examining student engagement and its contribution to student learning in higher education. Among research outputs are contributions to quality, student success, belonging, well-being and active citizenship. Second, the paper explores why these diverse contributions have gained widespread acceptance in higher education. It argues that neoliberalism is a major influence in engagement’s rise to prominence. Third, drawing on Weber’s construct of elective affinity, the paper maps key affinities between student engagement and neoliberalism. Elective affinity comprises forces of mutual attraction that exist between the structure and contents of belief systems and the underlying needs and motives of individuals and groups who subscribe to them.

Keywords:

• student engagement
• higher education
• neoliberalism
• elective affinity
• educational research

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Nick Zepke

Nick Zepke is an associate professor in adult eduction who works with undergraduate and postgraduate teachers of adults. His research interests are divided between learning and teaching in higher and further education and taking a critical approach to futures and politics in education.