| Popis: |
Access programmes (APs) aim to encourage young adults from socioeconomic groups that are under-represented in higher education, mature adults, persons with disabilities and ethnic minorities, to go to university. This chapter presents an overview of why APs are important, followed by a review of the history of APs in Ireland. It then discusses in detail an evaluation of the comprehensive ‘New ERA’ AP at University College Dublin. The results of this evaluation show a positive effect of the programme on first year exam performance, dropout rates and final graduation outcomes. This finding is consistent for access students entering through the standard admissions system and for those entering with grade concessions. The chapter concludes with a discussion of possible avenues for future research. |
