Unanswered Questions about Public Service in the Public Research University

Abstract

Public service in the public research university is more important than ever before, but there is a need to discuss even the most basic questions about the subject. For example, what is meant by service? Who should be served? What methods should be used to evaluate service? What strategies and structures would strengthen service? What is the social responsibility of the university? This article addresses several such questions and some of the issues they raise. It draws on work in diverse fields and recognizes emerging efforts to develop knowledge in ways that serve society.