Essaying purposes and specialisations of institutional types in knowledge production

Abstract

This article deals with differentiation, diversification and dedifferentiation of purposes and specialisations of institutional types in the post-apartheid setting, using as examples universities of technology created 10 years ago. It examines differentiation, diversification and dedifferentiation in the global context, particularly the specialisation of purposes of institutions as a form of division of labour in knowledge production and dissemination in higher education. It then takes issue with rigid and narrow forms of specialisation, thus projecting more flexible specialisation and specialism in the production and distribution of knowledge and skills. Differentiation in the post-apartheid era is then examined. External influences, competency and outcomes, and their limitations as drivers of curriculum designs are also discussed. Lastly, issues emerging from the discussion are explored and concluding remarks made.