ORCID
- Louise Webber: 0000-0001-8835-0141
Abstract
University entry requirements and programme structure can act as a barrier to many mature students wishing to embark on a university degree. A degree with a foundation year enables widening participation and access students, including mature students, an opportunity to enter universityand develop confidence and skills. This paper explores the experiences of five mature students on the Early Childhood Studies and Education foundation year programme at the University of Plymouth through a longitudinal, qualitative study. This evaluation focuses on the benefits of this foundation year programme and areas of challenge. Benefits of a foundation year include confidence building, identity change and university skills development. Challenges arose because of differences between younger and older students, including disparities in attitudes to learning and socialising, differing priorities and academic confidence.
DOI
10.5456/WPLL.25.2.174
Publication Date
2023-12-21
Publication Title
Widening Participation and Lifelong Learning
Volume
25
Issue
2
ISSN
1466-6529
First Page
174
Last Page
184
Recommended Citation
Webber, L. (2023) 'Evaluating the foundation year – 'Foundation sets you up as a student more than anything!'', Widening Participation and Lifelong Learning, 25(2), pp. 174-184. Available at: https://doi.org/10.5456/WPLL.25.2.174
