What Are Universities For?

POINTS
1.0

MODE
Panel

TYPE
Knowing
SoCIETIE KNOT

Summary

This panel will invite students to navigate and discuss the role of universities in contemporary society. The session will be run in the following format:

• First hour: generating questions and ideas
• Then panel and Q&A for 90 minutes
• Followed by informal discussion

Preparation

[2025 no preparation required]

Please engage with the reading before class.

What will students learn

This will be an exploration of the idea of a university.

Completion

Consider the pre-panel activity (what did you think Universities are for?), the reading, and the panel discussion. Reflect (150-200 words) on a question that you asked, or would have asked if you had time.

Material

• Boulton and Lucas, 2008, "What are Universities For?" https://www.researchgate.net/publication/225511003_What_Are_Universities_For
• A Big Ideas podcast moderated by Prof Des Manderson: https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/bigideas/the-purpose-and-the-future-of-the-university/12095864 
• Universities Accord: https://www.education.gov.au/australian-universities-accord/resources/final-report

---

• KNOT Creator: Chris.Browne@anu.edu.au
• KNOT Contact: