Abstract: Student parents face unique challenges as they navigate their academic journey while兼顾育儿责任. This study aims to explore how universities can better accommodate and support student parents in their pursuit of higher education.
Background: Balancing educational pursuits and parenthood requires an effective support system and tailored interventions from universities. Student parents often encounter systemic barriers, including a lack of affordable childcare options, difficulties in scheduling classes around family commitments, and stigmatization. Therefore, there is a growing need for research that examines ways to better serve this population within the higher education sector.
Research Questions:
1. What are the key challenges faced by student parents within university settings?
2. What institutional challenges prevent effective accommodation of student parents' needs?
3. What are best practices and successful strategies implemented by universities to support student parents?
4. How can universities promote a campus culture that embraces inclusivity and recognizes the unique perspectives of student parents?
Methodology:
This study will adopt a qualitative approach, collecting data through in-depth interviews and focus groups. We will engage with current and former student parents, university administrators, and faculty members to gain a comprehensive understanding of the experiences, challenges, and potential solutions to enhance support for student parents in university settings.
Findings and Implications:
This research aims to identify both systemic barriers faced by student parents and practical solutions for greater inclusion and support in universities. Findings from this study will inform policy and practice by providing actionable recommendations to higher education institutions, educators, and support services on fostering a more student-parent-friendly environment. This can potentially pave the way for broader institutional reforms to empower student parents to achieve academic success and personal fulfillment.
The significance of this study lies in its contributions to advancing the existing research on student parents in higher education, promoting accessibility and equity, and ultimately ensuring an inclusive and nurturing learning environment for all students.
