Social selectivity, school belonging and performance

Abstract

Universities of applied sciences across Europe attract a socially diverse student body. This study examines the relationship between socio demographic characteristics, learning factors, and academic performance at the School of Business FHNW. Using in-depth interviews with a structured sample of 38 students. The findings highlight the need for HEIs to better include female students from lower social classes and migrant histories. Recommended measures include expanding support structures such as counselling, peer tutoring, and mentoring; and fostering a more diverse faculty.