Balancing between accountability and autonomy: the impact and relevance of public steering mechanisms within higher education

Purpose This article studies the tensions between universities' accountability and autonomy in response to demands of public steering mechanisms coordinating higher education institutions. Design/methodology/approach Demonstrating tension autonomy, impact relevance are studied via a survey with selected representative Finnish universities. The rate was an exceptionally high 94%. In addition statistical analysis survey, open-ended questions were also analyzed give more in-depth understanding findings. study uses paradox theory institutional complexity as its theoretical lenses. Findings empirical this shows considerable gap experienced education. authors’ further data that indicator-based funding allocation has undermined perceived university autonomy. authors highlight paradoxical institutions' mechanisms' requirement for accountability. Finding acceptable balance plays important role designing policies. Originality/value found even if mechanism is impactful, it not necessarily considered relevant. One key aspects reasons behind mismatch related Most impactful become less relevant because they endanger sense, could be expected should better