Abstract
Consumerist views have increased in English higher education. At the same time, the wellbeing of university students is of growing concern. Some research suggests that consumerist views amongst students link to lower wellbeing and achievement. This prompted the current paper which speculates that the concept of autonomy (as depicted in self-determination theory) might provide a useful lens through which to analyse consumerist attitudes in UK higher education and their possible effects on students. Self-determination theory posits that people are fulfilled and have optimal motivation when their basic needs for competence, relatedness and autonomy are met. These three basic needs are complementary. Each could provide a lens for examining the facilitators or barriers to optimal motivation within higher education. This paper focuses on autonomy and explores possible links between a consumerist orientation and student wellbeing and achievement in English universities. Using self-determination theory, autonomy-enhancing ways of framing policy and managing the student experience and teaching and learning are outlined. The concept of autonomy offers a useful framework for potential enhancement of student motivation and wellbeing at policy, institutional and programme levels. Further empirical work could usefully explore and refine the hypotheses advanced.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 836-849 |
Number of pages | 14 |
Journal | Journal of Further and Higher Education |
Volume | 46 |
Issue number | 6 |
Early online date | 6 Apr 2022 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 6 Apr 2022 |
Keywords
- self-determination theory; autonomy; wellbeing; students as consumers; higher education; marketisation of higher education
- Self-determination theory
- autonomy
- marketisation of higher education
- wellbeing
- higher education
- students as consumers