Access to Higher Education for Vulnerable Students: What Stands in Their Way and How Can We Help? View Digital Media

Workshop Presentation
Maureen Drysdale,  Sarah Callaghan  

Vulnerable and hard-to-reach students experience barriers and challenges when it comes to selecting and attending higher education. What barriers and challenges do they experience and what can be done to overcome these? Using focus groups and thematic content analysis of marketing materials, we examined the barriers and challenges that prevent equitable access to higher education and training for vulnerable and hard-to-reach students. We also investigated the kinds of information needed by these prospective students and what mediums are most appropriate for communicating the necessary information. Additionally, we compiled and analyzed the types of data and identifiers that indicate a vulnerable student is less likely to access, transition, and complete university or college. In this workshop, we will share the findings from our study as well as have participants discuss the barriers and challenges to equitable access to higher education that is experienced by vulnerable students in their geographic location. In groups, participants will also brainstorm potential solutions that could inform recruiting practices and increase access for all students.