Increasing and widening access to higher education: a comparative study of policy and provision in Scotland and Australia

Gallacher, J., Osborne, M. and Postle, G. (1996) Increasing and widening access to higher education: a comparative study of policy and provision in Scotland and Australia. International Journal of Lifelong Education, 15(6), pp. 418-437. (doi: 10.1080/0260137960150603)

Abstract

The place of access policies within higher education through a comparative approach which examines recent developments in Scotland and Australia is examined. The development of access policies is presented in the context of wider change, which is restructuring higher education in both societies. The importance of factors associated with national economic development in this process is emphasized, and the possible conflict with policies which are designed to encourage equity is explored. The impact of these policies both on the structure of the higher education systems, and on participation rates is examined. While there are major differences between these two societies, in terms of geography, history and political agendas, this paper emphasizes important areas of similarity, which are helping reshape higher education in these and in other societies.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Osborne, Professor Michael
• Authors: Gallacher, J., Osborne, M., and Postle, G.
• Subjects: L Education > LB Theory and practice of education > LB2300 Higher Education
• College/School: College of Social Sciences > School of Education > Social Justice Place and Lifelong Education; College of Social Sciences > School of Education > People, Place & Social Change
• Journal Name: International Journal of Lifelong Education
• ISSN: 0260-1370
• ISSN (Online): 1464-519X
• Published Online: 20 August 2006