Dysfunctions of the higher education system in the context of Russian media discourse

Abstract

Introduction . The transformation of higher education in accordance with national interests requires a thorough analysis of dysfunctions within this sector. The mass media play a crucial role in shaping the discourse surrounding these issues. Aim . The present study aims to analyse the dysfunctions of higher education as depicted in Russian digital media. Methodology and research methods. The methodology is based on the structural-functional paradigm, which conceptualises higher education as a system comprising four functional components: adaptation, goal attainment, integration, and pattern maintenance. Drawing on an analysis of sources published in electronic databases of scholarly publications between 2000 and 2026, key dysfunctions within the sphere of higher education were identified. On this basis, a corpus for content analysis of media publications was compiled; selection was conducted using keywords via the Kribrum system. Employing a qualitative-quantitative approach, 705 media publications addressing problems in higher education were analysed. Results. The hypothesis that media coverage is dominated by external dysfunctions in the spheres of adaptation and goal attainment was confirmed. The principal narrative emphasises the need to transform higher education in accordance with national priorities. News items predominantly focus on corruption within higher education institutions. Internal dysfunctions of higher education – specifically those related to the academic environment and pedagogical work – are discussed considerably less frequently. Correlation analysis revealed no significant patterns between the dysfunctions represented and the type of source, which can be attributed to the “virality” of publications and the tendency of local media to follow the agenda set by federal outlets. Scientific novelty. The study is notable for its integrated approach, combining automated social media analysis with the sociological method of content analysis. The authors developed a typology of dysfunctions in higher education and identified specific characteristics of their media representation, placing particular emphasis on external dysfunctions. Practical significance. The research findings can be utilised to enhance the information environment concerning the representation of issues in higher education.