Reviewing the Complexities of Student Non-Attendance and the Implications for Block Teaching

Abstract

This article explores some of the key academic narratives relating to student nonengagement and non-continuation. Factors influencing non-attendance include family life, mental health concerns, the pressures associated with transition to university, meeting new people, timetabling, paid work, financial concerns and being on the wrong degree programme. The article argues for the need for a shift towards a greater understanding of this complexity, including through intersectional analyses, in getting to understand structural factors affecting student non-attendance as well as for a shift towards a better use of data.