Teaching and research in Colombia from the perspective of academic capitalism

Abstract

In this paper we analyzed how two Colombian universities, one public and one private, responded to government policy reforms related to research and teaching. This study was based on a multiple case study design including interviews with Deans, focus groups with students and faculty, and relevant institutional documents for each of the two institutions. Using the theoretical framework of academic capitalism, we found an overvaluation of research activities, tensions in these institutions to maintain their traditional roles based on the idea of educating citizens, and an adaptation to the idea of becoming a contemporary university base on a market logic. Finally, we also found the lack of a link between research, teaching, and the local social environment.