Off Course: From Public Place to Market Place at Melbourne University [Paperback]

John Cain (Author), John Hewitt (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: April 1, 2004

A candid and disturbing case study revealing a system under siege, this is an in-depth examination of the University of Melbourne, one of Australia's oldest and most prestigious tertiary institutions, and how well it does or does not serve Australia's needs. A timely wake-up call for all who believe in the commercial quick-fix for tertiary education funding, it offers insights from university insiders such as former vice chancellors and current University Council members. The ascendancy of administrators over academics, the subsequent alienation of the academics, the muted voice of the University Council, and falling academic standards are among the ills cited. Arguing that the university has lost sight of its fundamental role as a public institution, this book offers a framework for a way back. Although it is directed at this specific university, its findings may well be appropriate for others facing similar dilemmas.

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About the Author

John Cain is the author of John Cain's Years and On With the Show. He is a former premier of Victoria and is currently a professorial associate in the department of politics and sociology at the University of Melbourne. John Hewitt is a former tutor in the department of politics and sociology at the University of Melbourne who now teaches at the grammar school level.

Product Details

• Paperback: 256 pages
• Publisher: Scribe Publications Pty Ltd. (April 1, 2004)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1920769099
• ISBN-13: 978-1920769093
• Product Dimensions: 9.5 x 5.8 x 0.9 inches
• Shipping Weight: 9.6 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #5,841,489 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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