Instruments of accountability in Brazilian higher education: Academic rankings in the Parliamentary Inquiry Commission on the Administration of São Paulo State Universities

Abstract

This study shows findings of an investigation into the forms of institutionalizing academic rankings as accountability tools for Brazilian public universities. The absence of institutional conditions which allowed the rise of these league tables in other countries - competitive admission markets and incorporation into public policies - evinces the peculiarity of the Brazilian case. This study examines the institutionalization of academic rankings in Brazil by analyzing references to rankings in the Parliamentary Inquiry Commission on the Administration of São Paulo State Universities, which took place in the São Paulo State Assembly from April 24, 2019, to November 5, 2019. Document analysis was conducted on audios and transcriptions of all 20 Commission meetings and the final report published at the São Paulo State Official Journal. Our findings indicate the idea of ranking performances as evidence of academic quality and excellence, raising questions regarding the rankings and governance structures of universities. Academic rankings have become relevant references to form opinions at the São Paulo State Assembly, prompting universities to actively respond to rankings and holding them accountable for their results.