Understanding the 'degree awarding gap' in geography, planning, geology and environmental sciences in UK higher education through peer research. Issue 2 (15th March 2023)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Singh, Shivani; Pykett, Jessica; Kraftl, Peter; Guisse, Abdourahamane; Hodgson, Edward; Humelnicu, Uma Elena; Keen, Natasha; Kéïta, Sarah; McNaney, Niamh; Menzel, Alice; N'dri, Kouadio; N'goran, Kouamé Junior; Oldknow, Grace; Tiéné, Raïssa; Weightman, William
• Is Part Of: Journal of geography in higher education. Volume 47:Issue 2(2023)
• Page Start: 227
• Page End: 247
• Publication Date: 2023-03-15
• Subjects: Degree awarding gap -- ethnicity -- international students -- minoritisation -- student experiences -- Whiteness; Geography -- Study and teaching (Higher) -- Periodicals; 910.711
• DOI: 10.1080/03098265.2021.2007363
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0309-8265

Abstract

ABSTRACT: This paper draws on critical race theory to analyse testimonies from students that help explain why minoritised ethnic communities studying geography, planning, geology and environmental sciences in the UK, have a lesser chance of being awarded a 'good' degree (i.e. an upper second- or first-class), in comparison to White British people. There are very low levels of ethnic diversity across these subject areas. We conducted peer research, including student-led semi-structured interviews at one British university over a five-month period (involving 38 participants in total). Our analysis explores the processes of minoritisation owing to cultures of Whiteness. These relate to teaching and learning spaces, off-campus encounters, university societies, student representation/committees, social interactions, part-time employment and caring responsibilities. We conclude with a call for action to reframe and disassemble the 'degree awarding gap' through student and staff co-design of policies and actions that will not only confront, but also subvert exclusionary cultures of Whiteness in its various manifestations across university life.