The University of Nottingham School of Sociology and Social Policy undertook qualitative research with BAME students to explore their lived experiences of belonging, inclusion and teaching and learning in the school. We continue to plan ways to engage with students around these issues. It takes up an already identified commitment to involve students in active participation, and staff in active participation and training around diversifying/decolonising the curriculum and other aspects of our practice which need to be made more inclusive.
Resources required:
- Student collaboration.
- Staff time.
Available evidence of impact:
- We have shared the findings of this research at teaching Away Days and with students in the school.
- It has led to the development of sub-groups, focusing on specific areas of work, as a formal part of the School EDI Committee.
- Student engagement.
- Shift of attitudes.
- Increasing understanding of decolonisation.
Links to available resources:
Implementation and potential challenges:
- Commitment to involving students in active participation.
- Sharing structure of subgroups.
- Time and resources.
- Buy-in from the university.
- Resourcing.
- Culture change.
- Engagement.
How to Use:
- Set up a community of practice group (staff & students) and undertake a qualitative assessment of the BAME learning experience.
- Compare findings to those of the University of Nottingham to identify shortcomings.
- Feed into relevant decolonisation/widening participation agendas in your institution.
