University discipline and the ‘higher education crisis’: student advocates' experiences and perceptions of quasi-judicial decision making in the university sector

Abstract

In the context of institutional concern with academic misconduct by university students, this paper reports on research into disciplinary decision making by universities in respect of students. Through semi-structured interviews with student advocacy staff, the paper explores experiences of the quality and approach of university disciplinary bodies to their task. In the first instance, perceptions of decision making are considered against aspects of legal standards of fair procedure. Second, the conduct and approach of student disciplinary bodies, as experienced by student advocates, are considered in light of prevailing conditions of sectoral crisis. The paper concludes that there are real concerns regarding the provision of justice to students in these circumstances.