Inequalities in the Transition to University: A Qualitative Study on the Social Class Position

Abstract

This study aims to understand the effect of inequality patterns on students' transition to university on the axis of social class positions and the role of universities in perpetuating these inequalities. The conceptual framework is discussed within the economic and cultural capital framework, which forms the center of Pierre Bourdieu's "reproduction theory". The single-case embedded design, which is a type of qualitative research method, was used in the study. The study consisted of 38 students studying engineering, social sciences, and language at Ankara Yıldırım Beyazıt and Bilkent Universities during the 2020-2021 academic year. The research data were collected through in-depth interviews using a semi-structured interview form. Data were analyzed using MAXQDA 2018 Analytics Pro qualitative analysis program with descriptive structural analysis and visualized with two case models. The results obtained in the study are as follows: Parents' income level, education level, occupation and educational values affect students' transition to university. Students' cultural capital shapes their preparation process for university, their choice of department/university, and results in unequal positions in their placement at the university. While the majority of AYBU students see university education as an activity that will enable them to work in the public sector and earn a regular income, the majority of Bilkent students see university education as an investment that will enable them to work in the private sector and earn a high income and prestige in the future. As a result of the study, it was suggested that the dependence on the central exam be reviewed to lessen the effect of social and economic factors on the transition to higher education.