Achieving Equality of HE Experience for Students from Widening Participation Backgrounds

This research aims to explore the challenges faced by self-identifying widening participation students entering Higher Education with a particular focus on those from a low-income background. The hope is to produce data that can be used to better support WP student recruitment and their transition into HE. Two research questions will underpin the project: What factors influence individuals from a widening participation background in their choice of HE institution? How can HE better support the transition and integration of widening participation students?

The research will gather qualitative data via semi structured interviews with UG students originating from ‘deprived’ backgrounds. These individuals will be asked to reflect on the challenges they faced in applying for university and transitioning into HE. The intention of the research is two-fold: to examine the role of existing widening participation support programmes, such as LEAPS, which aid low-income students in their UCAS applications. Secondly to examine HE aid when WP individuals enter university and whether such programmes are beneficial. In order to gain a wider understanding, the interview will include questions about the student’s chosen degree, universities applied to and why, a brief family background and what challenges they have identified since beginning university. By carrying out this research, a better understanding of low-income students will be developed, and we will be able to identify programmes which are working, why, and how they can be improved.

This research ties to the importance the University of York places on widening participation. The intention is to use the findings of the research to produce materials for the University of York to support and encourage and inform incoming WP students of how to transition smoothly in HE and the challenges that can be faced and overcome.

This feeds into the university’s research theme of justice and equality. In order to obtain equality for low-income students, it must first be understood what challenges they face. I have chosen this research project, inspired by my own experiences as a WP student at University of York and desire to contribute to the University in achieving equality for all..

To ensure the success of the research, the interviews will be conducted over zoom for easier accessibility, I will then continue to ensure the success of the research by following a timetable, that allows extra time in case of participation cancellation.