Background
Location: Fredericton, New Brunswick
A strategic priority for New Brunswick Community College (NBCC) was reducing barriers for underrepresented groups to access post-secondary education. One of their key challenges was non-traditional learners could be better served through college recruitment and retention activities. Stiletto was contracted to research and assess ways to welcome more learners from these groups to the College.
Solution
From existing research, Stiletto conducted a literature scan and analysis to identify underrepresented groups and a cross-referenced list of barriers that prevent each group from participating in post-secondary education.
We also conducted a comparative analysis pertaining to activities of NBCC and comparable institutions facing similar obstacles. Best practices from across North America were summarized and prioritized according to NBCC’s local community needs. Partnership opportunities with local groups serving underrepresented communities was also considered. Based on the research and analysis, we identified the key groups and the strategies needed for reducing key barriers for those groups.
Results
The final report summarized the data collected and the identified opportunities for NBCC as well as a recommended roll-out for the next phases of the project.
What I appreciated most about Stiletto’s service was the consistent follow-up and collaborative process. It was a really productive working relationship. Others might do a check-in at a midway point and then go away and write the final report, which might not end up reflecting what we’re looking for. With Stiletto, there was continual communication and interaction. It was worth the investment because we got what we were looking for, plus more. They achieved the goal we set and delivered exactly what we needed to move forward.
Director of Applied Research & Innovation | NBCC