Creating communities of learners: supporting and informing those on articulation routes into higher education

The numbers of students entering higher education via articulation routes has increased in recent years. Articulation involves students studying Higher National (HN) qualifications at college and then using these qualifications to start at university in second or third year. Articulation has become a central issue for higher education institutions, especially with regard to the support in place for those students who move from college to university. This paper explores the development of a pedagogic model in this context by looking at the role of the HN Degree Advisor who supports students studying on articulation routes. Drawing upon the work of Freire and feminist theorists, this paper emphasises the importance of creating a sense of community in order to provide a supportive and positive environment for learners so they feel more confident about starting at university.