UNE Pathways Enabling Course: setting new standards for university alternative entry for disadvantaged students

Abstract

The University of New England is in its second year of offering the 'The UNE Pathways Enabling Course' that prepares students from low socio-economic backgrounds for undergraduate study at university. The course is completely fee free, takes one year of part-time study and is structured so that students can acquire the skills and confidence they need to undertake university study while also gaining credit towards a degree. Completion of the course provides the basis for admission to most undergraduate courses at UNE. It is taught via distance education so participants can undertake the program from any geographical location where they have access to the Internet. The Pathways Enabling Course is proving to be a popular course with students... At the beginning of 2009, the Pathways Enabling Course has over 300 enrolments, demonstrating the current level of interest this course has generated in the community. The structure, presentation and delivery of the course have also undergone significant revisions as we respond to our teaching experiences and to student feedback.