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Widening participation and enhancing academic success: The impact of university diplomas on non-traditional students’ academic lives
Journal article   Open access   Peer reviewed

Widening participation and enhancing academic success: The impact of university diplomas on non-traditional students’ academic lives

Johanna Nieuwoudt, Grant Andrews, Rikki Quinn and Suzi C Syme
Studies in the Education of Adults, Vol.First online, pp.1-17
07/02/2025
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/02660830.2025.2463222
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Widening participation and enhancing academic successView
Published (Version of record)CC BY V4.0,  Open

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UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

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#4 Quality Education

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Abstract

Diploma Widening participation University pathways Transition pedagogy Adult learning Student success
University diplomas in Australia provide pathways into higher education for a diverse cohort of students, including students who do not meet the academic requirements of the bachelor course. Despite the role of university diplomas in widening participation and addressing inequities of access to higher education, there is a paucity of research about diplomas and diploma students. This mixed-method study investigated the experiences and outcomes of students entering higher education in Australia through university diplomas. Quantitative and qualitative findings showed that students found the diplomas to be beneficial for beginning their university study and their overall academic success. Students reported that the holistic support offered in the foundation subjects and across the institution was integral to their success. Students who completed university diplomas had higher success rates and GPAs in their subsequent bachelor courses compared to students who had not completed a diploma. Evidence from this research shows that university diplomas can help prepare students, particularly non-traditional university students, for success in academic study. A pedagogical design that incorporates transition pedagogy, includes and values adult learning principles, and allows for flexibility and independent learning is essential to support diploma students throughout their academic journey.

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