The Rae In Scotland: A Kiwi Participant-observer In An Ancient University

This article provides an analysis of the processes and likely impact of the Research Assessment Exercise (RAE) from the perspective of a participant observer in one location in an ancient University in Scotland, 2004–2008. Initially, the paper reviews the RAE in the wider context of neoliberal reforms in education before focussing on an adult-education department as the unit of analysis. The structures and processes in place for the 2008 RAE in the department and faculty are assessed and forecasts made of possible effects of the exercise on staff and the field of adult education.