Broadened participation in higher education
Our teaching mission is not solely a matter of content. It also relates to how we teach and structure our teaching. According to the Higher Education Act, all higher education programmes must promote broadened recruitment.
Key concepts
Broadened recruitment is a matter of justice, democracy, quality and relevance. Everyone has the right to university education, regardless of sex, gender identity or expression, ethnicity, religion or belief, disability, sexual orientation or social background.
Broadened participation means promoting accessible teaching, counteracting unequal social recruitment, and ensuring equal access to education for all groups in society.
Broadened participation is about meeting a diverse group of students in teaching, both in relation to their individual circumstances and prior knowledge, and in relation to the admission requirements we have established. Broadened participation in teaching is supported by the Discrimination Act, and Örebro University works actively with issues concerning equal opportunities and gender equality.
The global goals of Agenda 2030 also emphasise the importance of teaching based on broadened participation on equal and gender-equal terms. This is evident in Goal 4: Quality Education, Goal 5: Gender Equality, and Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities.
Designing inclusive learning environments in which all students become involved in teaching can be perceived as a pedagogical challenge. However, research shows that an approach characterised by openness and respect for all students means that there is no need to create special solutions for those with particular needs. Instead, it saves both time and other resources.