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Item Type:Journal Article
Title: Improving the Retention of Students from Lower Socio-economic Groups
Author: Yorke, Mantz
Author: Thomas, Liz
Abstract: Success in higher education for students from lower socio-economic groups and from disadvantaged backgrounds is becoming an increasingly important policy goal in the UK and abroad. An analysis of the HEFCE performance indicators identified six English higher education institutions performing above their benchmarks with regard to widening participation and also student retention and completion, and prompted an investigation of what these institutions had been doing that might account for their success. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with senior managers responsible for retention and completion, which focused on institutional strategy. Analysis of the interviews suggested that success in retaining students from lower socio-economic groups required a strong policy commitment to access and retention, backed up by practical action. A number of actions were identified as possible contributors to such success.
URL http://www.ingentaconnect.com/content/routledg/cjhe/2003/00000025/00000001/art00007
Volume 25
Issue 1
Pages 63-74
Publication Journal of Higher Education Policy and Management
Date 2003-05-00 May 2003