Abstract

This paper presents the findings of exploratory research which aims to understand the student experience of Higher Education (HE) in England, UK. Using a qualitative approach research was conducted over an eighteen month period at seven universities across England using focus groups with students and the use of campus maps to develop discussions about how the university and place affected each student’s experience. Students were also asked to reflect on their expectations and understanding of the student experience. This paper will provide selected results from the project fieldwork in relation to university students’ recognition and understanding of the student experience with a focus on the participants’ expectations of the student experience.