Consultant

This paper reports on a study which compares the teaching of business and business related subjects in one English university and a number of associated tertiary (post-16) colleges. The research was carried out to explore similarities and differences in the teaching and learning environments in these two sectors in order to gain a better understanding of why some students appear to find it difficult to make the transition into university. This comparative study forms the first part of an ongoing project intended to improve retention and achievement of first year undergraduate students who move directly from level 3 qualifications in school or college into university. While the research focuses in particular on business and business-related qualifications, the results of this study are likely to be of wider interest to those involved with first year undergraduate students, irrespective of subject or discipline of study. Background to the Study Changes in post compulsory educational policy over the past decade have placed increasing emphasis on the concept of widening participation and lifelong learning. These changes are underpinned by the need to provide equality of opportunity for groups which are under represented in tertiary and higher education (such as ethnic minorities and lower socio-economic groups) but are also driven by the need to develop workers with the appropriate knowledge and skills required to support national economic development (Parker 2003, Leitch Report 2006, HEFCE 2006). As a result, the government’s aim is to encourage more young people t