The diminishing spaces for collegial work

In this conceptual paper, we discuss how collegiality as a governing form in contemporary universities is challenged in its ability to influence organizational control over—and responsibility for—teaching and research. In particular, we examine how contemporary organizational conditions, beyond mere formal structures, might limit the space within which collegiality remains relevant, and how these conditions undermine the very academic practices it aims to serve. We suggest two different processes of ‘decollegialization’ of higher education and research that, as we see them, jointly redefine collegiality as a governing form: colonization and adulteration. • Collegiality is challenged by narrowing down where, how, when and by whom collegial decision-making is seen as relevant, legitim and formally accepted. • The connection between the collegium of peers and those representing the collegium weakens as academic leadership strengthens its managerial status. • The academic profession itself is involved in redefining conditions for collegiality by taking on and proliferating managerial and bureaucratic values, preferences and practices.