Faculty of Education - Research Publications

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A tale of three cities: highlights and problems of Centralia, Octavia and Vitis Vinifera

Westerheijden, Don F. ; GOEDEGEBUURE, LEO ; Huisman, Jeroen ; Jongbloed, Ben (Center for Higher Education Policy Studies (CHEPS), 2005)

In this brief chapter, some of the most salient characteristics of each of the three scenarios are highlighted using four main themes: system diversity, governance, funding and quality. These were not necessarily the dimensions across which the scenarios were first designed. On the contrary, we aimed at a critical reflection on what came out of the scenario design exercise from independent points of view. We especially draw attention, therefore, to some inherent tensions and contradictions in each of the scenarios, as a counterbalance to the positive tone of the previous chapters in which the scenarios were presented. Let us remind the reader that the Centralia scenario largely evolved (though systematised and ‘enlarged’) from the majority opinions of our respondents to the Delphi study, whilst the two other scenarios contrasted with this by making use of patterns of opinions (in a few cases majorities) in the Delphi-study response. There was quite a bit of ‘science fiction’ in those chapters and some intentional polishing to make each scenario appear attractive in as many respects as possible. Therefore before turning to external comments, we wish to qualify that rosy picture.