Chapter 5.1 Getting the Higher Education X-Factor

Abstract

Purpose – This case study explores how higher education institutions can help develop the social and cultural capital of students who come from non-traditional backgrounds. It aims to examine how selective performing arts institutions can ensure that they widen participation and develop their student body to represent the social make-up of the United Kingdom, when there is such strong competition for places and real focus on quality.

Methodology/approach – It is a case study, which simply illustrates the practices and policies for widening participation (WP) at the Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts (LIPA).

Findings – There are no real findings as it is not a research project

Social implications – It discusses how social and cultural capital can have an effect on the progression of WP students and how access to such capitals can support their progression to higher education.

Originality/value of paper – It is an original case study about the LIPA.

Citation

Gammo-Felton, M. (2011), "Chapter 5.1 Getting the Higher Education X-Factor", Thomas, L. and Tight, M. (Ed.) Institutional Transformation to Engage a Diverse Student Body (International Perspectives on Higher Education Research, Vol. 6), Emerald Group Publishing Limited, Bingley, pp. 169-177. https://doi.org/10.1108/S1479-3628(2011)0000006017