The contribution of a residential upon an undergraduate university experience

Abstract

ABSTRACT Undergraduate student engagement can present a challenge to UK Higher Education Institutions and therefore it is pertinent to consider approaches that may improve attendance and sense of course belonging. This research explores the impact that a residential experience in the first term of a UK university course (BA Education) might have on students and their engagement with the course. This was a co- produced project between lecturers on the programme and two students from the course. Data were collected through interviews conducted by the students with 12 volunteer interviewees who had experienced the residential. The findings highlight the potential of residentials to have a positive impact on both student-to-student relationships and relationships between students and members of the teaching team. This improvement in relationships led to student openness to working with classmates outside of their immediate friendship group who they might not usually work with. Participants also reported a positive impact on their motivation to attend sessions and engage during activities and discussions, as well as positive influences upon wider life skills. As a result, practitioners on university courses should consider the potential of residential opportunities as part of undergraduate courses as a way of supporting student engagement, a sense of community and belonging.