Higher education research in China: An independent academic field under the state

Abstract

This chapter outlines higher education research (HER) in China developed as a well-recognized independent academic field in the unique national and historical contexts. The rise and formation of higher education as a research field in China have been closely related with the substantive growth of the higher education system itself. Higher education research in China is characterized by strong institutional basis, an obvious orientation toward policy and practice at the macro- and mesolevels, and support from and legitimacy by a strong state. Knowledge production in the field is currently characterized by being increasingly outward looking and through support from the state.