In this paper, we test how well Rational Action Theory, as developed to explain educational differentials, applies in the Dutch situation. The question we address is the extent to which the mechanisms assumed to be at work can explain class and gender differentials in participation in higher education. After explaining the Dutch educational system and outlining Rational Action Theory, we formulate four hypotheses that we test using data from a panel survey among high school pupils first interviewed in 1991. Evaluating the theory, we conclude that the mechanisms assumed to be at work can indeed explain class differentials in participation in higher education. Moreover, we find support for the hypothesis that the mechanism of relative risk aversion is the most crucial factor in the model. We could not convincingly show that the theory explains gender differentials.

Nijmegen. His research interests include: consequences of social mobility on ethnic antagonism, the impact of the direct living environment on ethnic antagonism and social cohesion, and educational inequality.

In this article, elements of rational choice theory and integration theory are compared on the basis of their explanatory power to explain variance in academic progress. It is argued that both theoretical concepts could be combined. Furthermore the distinction between social and academic integration which integration theory makes is abandoned. Empirical tests, using AMOS (Analysis of Moment Structures), show that an extended model, comprising both integration and rational choice theory, provides the best explanation of academic progress.

Research self-efficacy of lecturers in non-university higher educationGriffioen, D.M.E.; de Jong, U.; Jak, S. AbstractDuring the last decade, the relationship between university and non-university higher education institutions has changed. As a contribution to the knowledge economy, non-university higher education institutions are expected to educate their students in research activities. Previously, teaching was the main responsibility of lecturers in non-university higher education, while research hardly played a role.This paper is about the belief of lecturers in non-university higher education in their own research ability (research self-efficacy). In a survey study conducted among Dutch lecturers (N=790), the research selfefficacy has been measured. A Structural Equation Model shows the effects of personal aspects, mastery experience, and organisational context on the research self-efficacy of lecturers. Research self-efficacy is also modelled in relation to lecturers' need to work on professional development in research skills.Results show that research self-efficacy is mostly affected by aspects of mastery experience, in which the context is similar to the given task. Implications are discussed.

In the context of a European knowledge economy, the Dutch non-university institutions systematically develop research activities at a higher frequency than before. With this development, they have been accused of academic drift, of striving to receive a status comparable to traditional universities. This study considers the perceptions of both managers and lecturers in non-university higher education concerning the organisational aims for research activities. The intention is to add an empirical base to the debate of academic drift, especially to the potential of academic drift on the staff level. The results show a moderate indication of potential for academic drift on the staff level. In addition, managers have more positive perceptions regarding all aims for research than lecturers, but both groups prioritise that the results of research should, first and foremost, be directed towards improving the quality of education.

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Students in different living situations are the central issue of this study. Large groups of first-year students not only transfer to a new educational system, but also start to live independently in rooms. The questions we answer, in this paper, are whether the students' living situations affect the integration process and how it is related to study progress. A total 782 first-year full-time students responded to questionnaires. A remarkable conclusion was that a positive effect of living independently on integration was not found. The students living in rooms experienced more personal problems than students who stayed at home. Students living in rooms spent several hours less on their studies, which negatively affected study progress.