摘要：The article analyses the development of research methodology on the role (contribution) of higher education. It is noted that the field of research on the meaning (contribution or role) of higher education is always determined by the historical context of its development. The relevance of the study stems from the need to systematise existing approaches to assessing the contribution of higher education to sustainable economic development. In this article, by correlating the characteristics of the economy and public policies existing at certain stages of society development, conclusions are drawn about the factors influencing the formation of approaches to the assessment of the role of higher education. Based on the results of the analysis, the peculiarities of the development of methodological approaches in the field of research are identified, the conclusion is made about the increase in the range of indicators included in the assessments and the gradual shift of emphasis from the economic to socio-economic and humanitarian role of higher education, as well as the expansion of the interpretation of higher education and its functions.
