Interesting read regarding fair access to university in Scotland. For those unaware, my Doctoral Research Thesis focused on the psychology behind aspirations of going to university for those from non-traditional university applicants (first in family to apply to university, carers, those with additional support needs, mature applicants and those living in particular socioeconomic areas and attending schools with low progression rates to university). I worked closely with Newcastle University ‘s widening access programme PARTNERs to complete my research. I’m happy to share my findings with those who may be interested in my research. I focused on theories of motivation and aspirations and explored that it much more complex than simply ‘raising aspirations’, despite this being the prominent narrative surrounding many policy leaders and some historic widening access initiatives in the UK. My research found that the aspirations of attending university were already there and that it was more about the structural barriers that prevented people who wanted to attend university progressing to higher education. A key finding from my study was the importance of having a key figure (family member, teacher, peers, other important people in their life) believe in the individual’s competencey in achieving access to university. Also it was important to reduce the structural barriers with regards to finances, student support and entry requirements. Happy to discuss this in more detail. Please feel free to reach out to me if you’d like more information or access to my Thesis. I also appreciate that the university route isn’t for everyone and is not a measure of success on its own as there are many ways of achieving aspirations without having to attend university. John H. McKendrick Glasgow Caledonian University Professor Stephen Decent Pamela Jane Ritchie
🆕 Professor John H. McKendrick has produced his first annual report as Scotland's Commissioner for Fair Access. He was appointed to the independent advisory role last year, taking over from Sir Peter Scott. 🤝 Find out more 👇