Minding the gap - From disparity to beyond

Abstract

The sector wide differences in the attainment of students categorised as Black Minority Ethnic (BME) and as white increases, despite the good degrees gained by students categorised as BME rising year on year (ECU, 2012). In this research staff and student perceptions of the attainment gap are explored and initiatives to reduce the gap are implemented. The research identified four areas that are crucial to student success and contribute to gap:  the quality of learning relationships  pedagogic factors: i.e. the clarity of assignment briefs  psychosocial barriers: i.e. student expectation, belongingness, aspiration raising and fear of stereotype threats  social capital: i.e. understanding the HE rules of engagement and degree classifications On conclusion of the programme the University saw a 2% decrease in its attainment gap. This work continues through the What Works Change Programme and considers how assessment practices can impact of student retention, progression, success and sense of belongingness.