Experiences of first-generation scholars at a highly selective UK university

Hindle, C; McEwan, C; Boliver, V; Maclarnon, A; Simpson, B; Brown, H

Abstract

Targets set by the UK Office for Students require highly academically selective UK universities to enrol a greater percentage of students identified as least likely to participate in higher education. Such students are typically at a disadvantage in terms of levels of academic preparedness and economic, cultural and social capital. Drawing on 18 interviews with first generation students at Durham University, we identify five sites of pressure: developing a sense of belonging within the terms of an elite university culture; engagement in student social activities; financial worries; concerns about academic progress, and self-transformation. Based on these insights, we argue that support for first generation scholars will require that universities recognise and redress elitist cultures that discourage applications from prospective first-generation scholars ultimately ensuring those who do enrol have the best educational and all-round experience.

Citation

Hindle, C., McEwan, C., Boliver, V., Maclarnon, A., Simpson, B., & Brown, H. (2021). Experiences of first-generation scholars at a highly selective UK university. Learning and Teaching, 14(2), 1-31. https://doi.org/10.3167/latiss.2021.140202

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Jan 29, 2021
• Online Publication Date: Jun 1, 2021
• Publication Date: Jun 1, 2021
• Deposit Date: Feb 3, 2021
• Publicly Available Date: Feb 3, 2021
• Journal: Learning and teaching.
• Print ISSN: 1755-2273
• Electronic ISSN: 1755-2281
• Publisher: Berghahn Journals
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 14
• Issue: 2
• Pages: 1-31
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.3167/latiss.2021.140202
• Keywords: first generation scholars, inclusion, higher education, highly selective universities, widening participation
• Public URL: https://durham-repository.worktribe.com/output/1280957