Developing professionally relevant research and study skills for mature students as preparation and induction for HE

This project aims to compare, refine and disseminate work already being piloted in the three institutions. These pilots are of schemes closely associated with induction to HE work related courses. The Swindon College pilot takes place as a preparation for HE application in a programme called Skills for University Study. The two University programmes take place in the first term after course commencement. The pilots involve a range of vocational areas, covering in particular special needs/ learning support, early years, police training and nursing. These pilots work with adult learners, mostly working part-time alongside their employment, for whom HE study is a daunting prospect even though they are experienced and effective professionals. The nature of these induction programmes is to dispel such fears and enthuse the adult learners towards further study and rapid progress. The skills involved include report and essay writing, communication and presentations, library and information searches, referencing, reflective practice, and action research.

Through dissemination through ESCalate, FE networks and UCET, the project will make this information more widely available to providers of work related courses for adult learners in order to impact upon quality provision and student retention.