Get into Gear : Gender Equality Action Research Project

The West Yorkshire Lifelong Learning Network (WYLLN) has supported the delivery of the Get into Gear: Gender Equality Action Research Project, a project which has had a particular focus on equality and diversity, and has been led by the UK Resource Centre for Women in Science, Engineering and Technology (UKRC), Bradford College.

The project aim is to develop practice through action research within the WYLLN partnership to enhance engagement, retention and progression of women as non traditional learners in the sectors where they are under represented i.e. Advanced Engineering and Manufacture; Construction and the Built Environment; Digital Industries, ICT and Print and Leadership in order to enhance the experience women have in these sectors and thus facilitate engagement, retention and progression.

The project has engaged participants from 4 institutions in West Yorkshire: University of Bradford; Bradford College; University of Huddersfield and Leeds College of Building. In each of the institutions an action research project has been carried out answering questions such as: What impact does using female role models have on students on all male courses? What effect can the availability of funding have on access to HE opportunities for women? Why are there very small numbers of female students on work-based learning courses than there are on other college based courses in construction?

Each of the participants has identified a gender focused action research project which fitted within their role. They attended three group meetings which focused on building knowledge of both gender equality training and guidance on the progress of their action research. Between meetings each participant had three to five days support from the UKRC as they developed their projects.

The project is due to be completed by the end of July. In addition to the action research projects undertaken the achievements will include:

• Four case studies illustrating key elements of the research projects

• CPD model that can be used in other settings

• Resources to support staff development on gender equality in Engineering, Technology and Construction

• A final report

For further information about the project contact Joanne Beaumont, Assistant Director, WYLLN, 01484 471106, j.e.beaumont@hud.ac.uk