Coping with Covid; Understanding and Mitigating Disadvantages Experienced by First Generation Scholars Studying Online

This article examines the implications of Covid-19 and the transition to online or blended learning for first generation scholars (FGS). Building on existing research, we present recent findings of a mixed methods project that draws data from both in-depth qualitative interviews and a large quantitative survey of students at Durham University. We offer a comparative analysis of how FGS contrast to the general student body in relation to a range of key challenges that Covid-19 and the consequent ‘online pivot’ are posing to university life including technological, social and resource based issues. Our findings demonstrate that FGS are particularly affected by this shift to online or blended learning. Given that these issues are highly pertinent in terms of any effective EDI agenda, they need urgent highlighting and addressing. Our final substantive section therefore discusses a range of solutions available to university departments to attempt to mitigate the problems identified.