‘I am just a loser of higher education’: a framework for comparative analysis of the value of adult higher education derived from a Chinese study

This paper proposes a unique framework for comparative analysis of different Adult Higher Education (AHE) systems. The combines, conceptualisation how students’ outcomes are shaped by the way that they and their degree courses positioned in stratified higher education systems with, insights about effects institutional practice individual agency gained from applying Basil Bernstein’s notion pedagogic rights underpinning concepts. facilitates an exploration structures agencies manifesting through practices, graduates’ experiences. value is illustrated biographical interviews with twenty female, Chinese AHE students ten graduates. It tracks emergent process evident descriptions disappointing identities limited employment progression. provides non-deterministic can inform to comparatively analyse improve AHE’s contribution societies economies.