Governing performance in the nordic universities: Where are we heading and what have we learned?

Abstract

In this final chapter, we revisit the overall aims of the volume and discuss the findings and implications for theory, policy, and practice. The general aim of the project has been to study the effects of the changing conditions of the environment under which Nordic higher education institutions operated during the period 2003–2013. A conceptual framework inspired by a typology developed by Johan P. Olsen was applied, focusing on various aspects of governance of universities and also stressing the ability of universities—as institutions—to resist, adapt, and respond to change initiatives from external and internal actors. Based on rich sources of data, including statistics, interviews from eight universities, and a survey to academics, managers, and administrators, the chapter discusses some key takeaways. The study shows that reforms with similar, rationalist agendas have been launched across the four countries. However, our survey and interview data reveal more nuanced and multifaceted experiences, more closely related to institutionalist view of universities.