Exploring the black, Asian and ethnic minority (BAME) student experience using a Community of Inquiry approach

Abstract

A ‘Community of Inquiry’ approach was used to explore the black, Asian and ethnic minority (BAME) student experience in a university situated in the north of England. Research facilitators were recruited from the postgraduate student population to explore with participants their experiences of learning in the institution. It was found that some of the white academic staff were not confident in talking about issues to do with race and racism. It was also discovered that students from BAME backgrounds may be experiencing isolation in their accommodation and on their courses, while at the same time feeling they needed to ‘overperform’ in order to succeed. The cumulative effect of this could lead to students’ dissatisfaction and the non-continuation of their courses. The Community of Inquiry was effective in identifying possible strategies for improving the student experience.