Apprenticeship Research Unit
Leading degree apprenticeship research across the University and beyond.
Components
As one of the largest providers of degree apprenticeships, Manchester Metropolitan is an ideal location for research into higher, degree and masters level apprenticeships.
Building on existing relationships with employers and students, our apprenticeship research unit aims to improve both policy and practice.
Our research
The unit is led by Dr Ernest Edifor. It focuses on three key areas:
- social mobility, diversity and widening participation – exploring who does degree apprenticeships, and whether the courses can help social mobility
- skills and productivity – exploring skill development through apprenticeships, and their impact on productivity
- pedagogy and work-based learning – exploring teaching and learning on degree apprenticeships
If you would like to work with us or want more information on our research, you can email [email protected].
Current projects
Working life after degree apprenticeship
A qualitative, longitudinal study that will provide some of the first insights into the career experience of individuals completing a degree apprenticeship. It will also include reflections from employers on the impact of the programme.
Read more about this research’s findings:
- Manchester Met tech apprentices earning £18,000 more than graduate averages for sector, analysis shows
- Research executive summary
- Apprentice findings
- Employer findings
Email Dr Ernest Edifor for more details.
Understanding the participation of degree apprentices and undergraduate students
This quantitative study compares a large sample of degree apprenticeships with similar courses taken by undergraduate students. It seeks to uncover key differences and similarities between those enrolling on degree apprenticeships and traditional undergraduate courses. Email Qi Cao for more details at [email protected].
Augmented reality (AR) for degree apprentices
This quantitative and qualitative study examines the impact of new teaching and learning resources on a first year group of laboratory scientist degree apprentices. Specifically, the study will explore how AR can influence engagement, accessibility and attainment - and how the technology is used. Email Tim Gabriel for more details at [email protected].