A typology of student diversity and an inclusive student learning support system: Insights for higher education

Abstract

Higher education today is characterized by a highly diversified student population. This, in turn, calls for greater inclusivity in higher education. To answer this call, this paper introduces a typology of student diversity in, and an inclusive student learning support system for, higher education. More specifically, the typology of student diversity suggests that students in higher education may comprise of adults, school leavers, indigenous students, low socio-economic background students, and international students. The typology explains each student classification in detail using five relevant factors, namely autonomy, anxiety, motivation, discipline, and life experience. Finally, the paper offers some pertinent insights to create an inclusive student learning support system for higher education based on the insights derived from the typology of student diversity in higher education.