QAA publishes report on inclusive and engaging learning

QAA has published a report on the principles which underpin inclusive and engaging learning experiences in business education.

The report is the product of a QAA-funded Collaborative Enhancement Project (CEP) led by a team from the University of Lincoln, in partnership with colleagues from Ghent University, Northern Illinois University, the University of Johannesburg, the University of Cape Town, the University of Cape Coast in Ghana, Lakehead University in Canada, North-West University in South Africa, Botswana Accountancy College, Sahoo Sri Sri University in India, Monash University Malaysia, Monash University Australia, Queen Mary University of London, the University of Greenwich and the University of Leicester.

The project's final report includes nine case studies from higher education practitioners based in Africa, Asia and the UK.

The report notes that "keeping students engaged is one of the biggest challenges in higher education, both in the UK and around the world". It observes that "student engagement includes more than just coming to class" – "it is about how students interact, participate and commit to learning in meaningful ways".

Arguing that "student engagement with business schools and their education is crucial in enhancing students’ overall university experiences", the report goes on to detail a set of key principles developed to underpin an inclusive and engaging learning experience in business education. These principles relate to diversity, respect, managing conflicts, supportive environments, communication, safe spaces, belonging, experiential learning, influential and motivational engagement, equity, empathy, collaboration with peers, participation, constructive feedback and learning cultures.

The report also includes guidance on applying these principles and a review of relevant literature.

The full report can be read on the CEP project page.