1994 Group Policy Forum 2012
#HEPolicy
Early in 2011 the 1994 Group embarked on an initiative to create space for innovative thinking about higher education (HE) policy to take place. The project proved a resounding success, with over 60 stakeholders taking part in a series of discussion events. Drawn from think tanks, the third sector, HE funding and regulatory bodies, as well as universities themselves, the people that took part in these discussions applied a wide range of perspectives and experiences to the future of HE. The result was a series of policy discussion papers published on the Guardian HE Professional Network website.
Following the event series, many of the participants contributed articles to the ‘Reforming the Academy’ collection, which was launched at events across each of the three party political conferences. The publication included analysis and ideas on university funding, research, internationalism and the student experience.
In 2012 we are building on this success with a series of events and publications looking at the ‘student experience’ concept. The 1994 Group firmly believes that a truly high quality student experience is multi-dimensional, and is achieved within the context of a holistic vision of higher education. These means taking into account issues like research; internationalism; campus environs, academic facilities, and more. Our Chair, Professor Michael Farthing, set out these ideas in his speech at last year’s Annual Student Experience Conference.
Once again we have brought together a range of innovative policy thinkers and practitioners to take part in discussions and contribute ideas. We are also grateful once again for the support of the University Partnerships Programme (UPP).
Over the coming months we will be holding events looking at:
1. The applicant experience
- Information, Advice and Guidance
- Widening participation and access programmes
- Partnerships with schools and colleges
- Application procedures
2. The academic experience
- Teaching standards and academic rigor
- Course and assessment composition
- Learning facilities
- Benefits of research intensive setting
3. The campus experience
- Living environs and social facilities
- Diversity of student body
- Opportunities for extra curricula activity
- Social capital building opportunities
4. The graduate experience
- Career guidance and employability prospects
- Alumni relationship with institution
- Ambassadorial potential
- Extended networks
We will also hold 1994 Group Policy Forum sessions at the NUS National Conference, in Sheffield this Spring, as well as the three Party Conferences in the Autumn.
To find out more about the 1994 Group Policy Forum 2012 please contact enquiry@1994group.co.uk