1: The Evolution of HE Academic Identity

The concept of identity is complex and is dependent on perspectives including social, outsider, and self. After defining the contextual scope of identity for this book, this chapter examines what is meant by academic identity. This is set through the examination of the historical context, traditional academic identities, and the challenges faced by these identities in the modern university. The chapter begins by outlining the timeline of higher education (HE) and the development of modern universities, followed by an examination of the academic identity that includes teaching, research, and administration. These three pillars have long been considered the core components of an academic’s identity. However, the chapter delves into the nuanced relationships between these elements and the impact they have on an academic’s sense of self and role within the university.

As the chapter progresses it will explain how the scale of expectations on academics in the current HE sector and the mass digital transformation being undertaken by all universities have impacted academic identities. Increased student enrolments and diversification and technological advancements have redefined the ways knowledge is created and disseminated. These are key factors that have altered the traditional identity. These challenges raise profound questions about how academics perceive their roles and the broader implications for HE. In addition, many academics have taught in the sector for decades and some new academics are entering the sector with a traditional view of the identity of an academic.