Investigating the Impact of Pathway Programs on Student Success in Higher Education: A Socioeconomic and Performance Analysis
Presentation
| Paper/Presentation Title | Investigating the Impact of Pathway Programs on Student Success in Higher Education: A Socioeconomic and Performance Analysis |
|---|---|
| Presentation Type | Presentation |
| Authors | Redmond, Petrea |
| Year | 2025 |
| Conference/Event | 30th International Council for Open and Distance Education World Conference 2025 |
| Event Details | 30th International Council for Open and Distance Education World Conference 2025 30th ICDE World Conference 2025 Parent International Council for Open and Distance Education World Conference Delivery In person Event Date 10 to end of 13 Nov 2025 Event Location Aotearoa, New Zealand Event Web Address (URL) |
| Abstract | This study examines the impact of pathway studies on preparation for success in first-year university courses by analysing demographic, socioeconomic, and academic performance trends. Conducted at a regional Australian university, it draws on de-identified data (2017-2023) within a structured pathway program designed to support students who do not meet direct entry requirements. The analysis focuses on two core English language development courses (entry-level and advanced), which act as critical entry points to university and reflect broader characteristics of the pathway cohort. Student demographic and academic data were merged with publicly available socioeconomic indicators from the Australian Bureau of Statistics to explore how these factors influence student outcomes. Findings show a shift toward a younger, predominantly female cohort, with female and older students achieving higher academic results. While most participants study online, there is an increasing presence of younger students on campus. The study highlights key challenges and opportunities in supporting diverse student groups and improving access to higher education. It contributes to the evidence on how pathway programs promote educational equity and inform more inclusive, sustainable practices in tertiary settings. The findings also offer practical insights for policy, curriculum development and future research. |
| Contains Sensitive Content | Does not contain sensitive content |
| ANZSRC Field of Research 2020 | 390109. Mathematics and numeracy curriculum and pedagogy |
| Public Notes | Files associated with this item cannot be displayed due to copyright restrictions. |
| Byline Affiliations | No affiliation |
https://research.usq.edu.au/item/100w34/investigating-the-impact-of-pathway-programs-on-student-success-in-higher-education-a-socioeconomic-and-performance-analysis
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