Barriers to learning for mature students studying HE in an FE college

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate whether recognised barriers to learning still exist for mature adult learners in a higher education (HE) centre within a further education (FE) college. Eighty‐four students who attend the further education college were asked to complete a questionnaire and participate in follow‐up semi‐structured interviews. The results identified that the impact of potential barriers is minimised by the approach adopted in the HE centre of the FE college in this study. The traditional barriers of accessibility of the institution, finance and family commitments did not seem to be an issue for these students. Contact with students early in the process seems to allay many of the fears about returning to study, particularly at HE level. This initial contact forms the basis of the support mechanisms that are laid down for each student throughout the course of their choice. This approach is a model designed for the particular FE institution described in this study.