This article reports on a series of interviews held with individuals in the middle of a Foundation Degree, during which they were asked for their views of studying for this qualification. It draws on a research project conducted with part-time students involved in work-based learning. The research into their ‘learning journeys’ aimed to explore the process of becoming and being a student. Findings suggested that individuals had embarked on a Foundation Degree for career-related reasons, although they also noted that their course returned secondary benefits, such as an increase in self-confidence and additional life skills. Interviewees found it difficult to juggle competing demands on their time, and needed emotional and practical support from those around them to do so. Other areas of concern were the lack of adequate assistance from tutors that some students felt when it came to writing assignments and the financial hardship that undertaking such a vocational qualification could bring. Results from this study highlight facets of Foundation Degrees that need to be considered by those delivering such courses. © 2005 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.
Author Keywords
Index Keywords
