Study Skills: neoliberalism's perfect Tinkerbell

• Published in: Teaching in higher education Vol. 28; no. 3; pp. 580 - 596
• Main Authors: Richards, Kendall, Pilcher, Nick
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Abingdon Routledge 03.04.2023; Taylor & Francis Ltd
• Subjects: Definitions; Educational Benefits; Higher Education; Ideology; Learning; Mastery Learning; Misconceptions; Neoliberalism; Pedagogy; Power Structure; Program Effectiveness; Study Habits; Study Skills; Transfer of Training
• ISSN: 1356-2517; 1470-1294
• DOI: 10.1080/13562517.2020.1839745

We argue that current approaches to Study Skills support are presented as being a panacea for resolving the issues presented by neoliberal approaches to educational expansion. We argue that for such a panacea to be believed pedagogically effective, four key tenets must be adhered to: Study skills is a definable entity; it is valuable for every subject; it can be embedded, and; Study Skills helps students succeed in their subjects. We argue these tenets are devoid of any sound pedagogical basis, yet that they are ideal for, and align with, neoliberal ideologies and free market political economy. We consider the organisational structuration of Study Skills as underpinned by Lukes's third dimension of power, outlining how Study Skills represents a constitutive fantasy, a magical Tinkerbell for all to believe in that solves everyone's problems. We propose HE dispels this Tinkerbell by ceasing to believe in it, and instead resources subject-based support.