Authors: Anne Braund, Trixie James, Katrina Johnston and Louise Mullaney
CQUniversity

Edition: Volume 62, Number 2, July 2022

Introduction: A growing number of single mothers are seeking entry to higher education via enabling programs; however, these students face unique struggles to make their dream a reality. There is some research on the challenges faced by student-mothers in higher education; however, research specifically on single mothers in enabling education is limited. This research focused on identifying the competing discourses that single mothers faced during an enabling program, and the ways they can be supported. Interviews were conducted with seven women who self-identified as single mothers, describing their personal struggles, alongside their experiences of great accomplishment. What became evident, was despite the difficulties of raising children as a sole parent, the student-mothers gained noticeable confidence in themselves during and after completing their enabling studies. Analysis of the data identified unique challenges faced by this non-traditional group of students and highlighted specific supports that this student group require. This paper details a range of obstacles that impeded their study; related directly to their status as single parents. These hurdles included financial difficulties, lack of support, negative familial relationships, personal health concerns, and study related challenges.

In addition, these seven student-mothers identified the key factors that supported their success: forging strong connections with other students, improved self-efficacy, the observed positive ‘knock-on’ effect to their children, and quality academic support and pastoral care from university staff. Thus, with perseverance and appropriate support, these student-mothers were able to achieve success in an enabling program. This study voices the personal ‘survival narratives’ of seven student-mothers; revealing challenges and strategies unique to their circumstances, that in-turn, generated a successful student experience.

Keywords: enabling education, student-mother, single mothers, non-traditional student, widening participation, qualitative research, thematic analysis

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This article is part of AJAL, Volume 62:2. The entire volume is available in .pdf for purchase here.