All SLN funded research projects were completed in August 2008. Project outcomes will be made available on this website in the near future

 

Drawing on the work of researchers such as Reay, this research aims to explore non-traditional students’ experiences of higher education within Plumpton College: the impact on their psychosocial growth will be examined. An attempt will be made to provide a conceptual understanding of the ways in which the values and practices of the institution affect their experience. Data will be collected by a variety of methods, including the use of blogs. The aims of this research are therefore:

• to explore the effect of the institution on the self system of non-traditional students studying within Plumpton College
• to explore the effect of the institution on the relational systems of non-traditional students studying within Plumpton College
• to explore the use of blogs as a research tool within an educational setting
• to improve knowledge of students' experience of higher education within a further education setting, with particular reference to psycho-social development.

 

Project Update, April 2008

The project is progressing well with students having engaged with the blogs through the first semester. These are now being followed up by a series of structured interviews, the questions devised from analysis of the content of the blogs. Initial findings show that, although strongly identifying themselves as studying at a higher education level, they do not consider themselves as University students and feel more strongly associated with the college in which they are studying. They are happy with the academic support and pastoral care provided. Delivery of teaching also received good feedback. The main area where they felt their experience of higher education was possibly lacking was surrounding some resources however this varied between individuals and the enhanced experience due to the large amount of practical facilities available was noted by several participants. Student also commented on the different environment being part of a relatively small institution with younger people on the premises. These points will be followed up as part of the interview process.

Contact: Becky Taylor

Email: becky.taylor@plumpton.ac.uk