This Forum Insight outlines the National Forum’s commitment to supporting open education principles, practices and policies in Irish higher education. In light of the growing development of open education across Europe and internationally, as well as the increasing urgency of supporting Irish higher education staff and students in an increasingly networked society, the need is clear. The National Forum Strategy 2019-21 includes a specific focus on supporting open education across all of our strategic priorities.
Enhancing Student Engagement and Belonging through Collaborative Partnership is a Higher Education Authority report prepared by a UCD research team led by Professor Barbara Dooley. The resource provides an evidence-informed framework for strengthening student belonging across Irish higher education institutions. Drawing on staff interviews, Healthy Campus survey responses, and analysis of Healthy Campus and NStEP case studies, it identifies practical approaches to improving student engagement, wellbeing and inclusion.
The report frames belonging as a multidimensional and co-constructed experience shaped by social, academic, personal and environmental factors. It highlights that student belonging is affected not only by relationships and participation, but also by structural issues such as housing, commuting, financial pressure, campus spaces, timetable design and access to supports.
The resource is particularly useful for staff and student partners working on Healthy Campus, student success, student engagement, access, inclusion, mental health promotion, orientation, peer support, student partnership and campus development initiatives.
