‘I'll play the game, but I cannot stay’ : The role of third space professionals in encouraging the retention, success and sense of belonging of undergraduate students

Authors

  • Julie Hughes University of Wolverhampton
  • Debra Cureton University of Wolverhampton
  • Jenni Jones University of Wolverhampton

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21100/compass.v14i3.1202

Keywords:

Third Space Professionals, Transitions, Level Three and Four Undergraduate, Retention, Success, Belonging

Abstract

In 2019, a diverse, post-92, Midlands university implemented a new, hybrid third space role called the ‘academic coach’ (AC) to support its mission to make its educational provision fully accessible to all its students, to retain them and to ensure their success. Since a sense of belonging to their institution is such a powerful influence on students’ sense of wellbeing, their development of an academic identity and their resilience in the higher education context, with consequent positive impact upon their retention and success, this role is devoted to the pastoral care and personal tutoring of levels three and four students. This case study considers the journey of the AC in defining and shaping this new role and offers the ACs’ perceptions of their influence on the experience of students at levels three and four by enhancing collaborative and learning relationships within the wider university.

Author Biographies

Julie Hughes, University of Wolverhampton

Julie Hughes is an Associate Professor in Learning and Teaching Enhancement in the College of Learning and Teaching at the University of Wolverhampton, where she focuses upon student transition initiatives.

Debra Cureton, University of Wolverhampton

Debra Cureton is an Associate Professor of Equity in Learning and Teaching and works in the Doctoral College at the University of Wolverhampton, where she focuses on researcher development and PGR student experience.

Jenni Jones, University of Wolverhampton

Jenni Jones is an Associate Professor in Coaching and Mentoring and works within the Business School at the University of Wolverhampton, where she focuses on developing a coaching culture throughout the Faculty of Arts, Business and Social Sciences.

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Published

08/18/2021

Issue

Vol. 14 No. 3 (2021)

Section

Case Studies

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