Educational journeys: understanding how women commuter students’ daily mobilities can shape their higher education experience

Abstract

Higher education in the UK has traditionally centred on students who relocate. However, an increasing number of students now remain at home and commute to campus instead. This shift might limit academic and social integration, which could hinder student retention and success While extant research notes the difficulties associated with commuting, little is known about the texture of these everyday mobilities. Given the gendered ways in which urban space is experienced, understanding how mobilities influence the educational journey is critical. Our article addresses this gap by drawing on a mixed methods research project conducted between March and April 2024, involving 19 women commuter students. We explore three research questions. First, how do women commuter students attending a city-based university commute to campus and how are these mobilities experienced? Second, how do students negotiate the varied spaces that comprise their everyday mobilities. Third, in what ways might these mobilities shape academic and social integration. Importantly, this study highlights that while the everyday mobilities of women commuter students should not be used to inadvertently reinforce outdated narratives, their experiences nonetheless reveal meaningful tensions between their lifeworlds and education. Universities should draw on these experiences to develop support ­tailored to this growing population.