Barriers and drivers of innovation in higher education: Case study-based evidence across ten European universities

Abstract The paper advances current knowledge on factors affecting higher education institutions in their quest for innovation in education. Based on an analysis of ten institutional cases from five European countries, a comprehensive description and classification of barriers and drivers of innovation are provided. Results indicate certain “disengagement” in relation of higher education institutions and education policy makers, business, and students as well as between higher education institutions’ managers and their subordinates. Based on the findings, major innovation-related challenges in the higher education are discussed and related practical recommendations are presented.