
An invitation to reconceptualise widening participation through praxis
An Invitation to Reconceptualise Widening Participation is a series of contributions from across practice and research reflecting the multidimensions of the collective and ongoing work within CEEHE and the international field. The collection articulates key concepts in the project of reconceptualising widening participation inviting us to reexamine and launch new lines of praxis-based inquiry through ongoing conversations across the theory/practice nexus.
Contributors explore international and national higher education landscapes and questions, and the complexities of generating praxis-based widening participation within and across local communities and programs, through sharp think pieces, essays and personal reflections. By drawing together the multiple voices engaged in this project (researchers, practitioners, policy-makers and students) this publication celebrates existing work, problematises policy and institutional structures, and extends the invitation for ongoing conversation and sustained commitment to praxis.
Links to available publications are included in the below.
Citation details are provided on each paper.
'I have learned that achieving meaningful and sustained change requires a more intentional collaboration and shared reflection between researchers and practitioners, an understanding that reflects the mission and vision of CEHEE.' - Professor Linda Sax
'In response, I suggest a new discourse is required to generate equity in, through and beyond higher education for those who identify or are identified as disabled. Core to this work is the reconceptualization of WP or its equivalent policy and practice/s, and the bringing together of research, practice, action and reflection within fully representative communities of praxis.' - A Prof. Suanne Gibson
'The Australian Writing for Equity Practitioners Program has provided rare opportunity for some of the most important but unsung people in the University, those in the equity sector, to have their experiences and expertise legitimised in the processes of publication.' - Dr Steven Threadgold
'As one academic colleague pointed out, this was the first event they had attended with professional services staff where they worked together to support each other’s development.' - A/Prof. Anna Mountford-Zimdars
'Drawing upon the concept of an arts-based pedagogy for grass-roots practice, this paper outlines the development of a Widening Participation program for women which interweaves feminist principles and decolonising practice to open up spaces for fostering equity, through the provision of participatory visual opportunities for learning'.- Felicity Cocuzzoli
'Through the sharing of multiple voices and types of pieces, this text shares deep insights into the possibilities of reframing reductionist, norm-referenced models of determining post-secondary higher education participation...' - Professor John Fischetti
'Imagine an education system or institution where all staff and graduates understand the role they could play in improving life outcomes for marginalised groups.' - Nathan Towney
'‘Fixed’ measures of student success are problematic as they fail to capture students’ experiences and personal perceptions.' - Kristen Allen
Contributors
- Professor Penny Jane Burke, Global Innovation Chair of Equity and Director Centre of Excellence for Equity in Higher Education
- Hon. Sharon Claydon, Member for Newcastle
- Felicity Cocuzolli, Reclaiming My Place, Centre of Excellence for Equity in Higher Education, University of Newcastle
- Professor Sarah O’Shea, Director, National Centre for Student Equity in Higher Education
- Professor Anna Mountford-Zimdars and Nicola Sinclair, Centre for Social Mobility, University of Exeter
- Nathan Towney, Pro-Vice Chancellor Indigenous Strategy and Leadership
- Professor Linda Sax, University of California Los Angeles (CEEHE Visiting Professor and Excellence in Teaching for Equity in Higher Education mentor)
- Associate Professor Suanne Gibson, University of Plymouth
- Kristen Allen, Deputy Convenor, Pathways and Academic Learning Support Centre, University of Newcastle (PhD Candidate and CEEHE National Writing Program Participant)
- Dr Steven Threadgold, Senior Lecturer, School of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Newcastle
- Associate Professor Lauren Ila Misiaszek, Beijing Normal University
- Nicola Cull, National Manager, Equity Pathways, Australian Catholic University
- Chris Ronan, Project Manager, CEEHE National Writing Program Participant
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.