The challenges of coaching non-traditional students in higher education: Applying a coaching intervention at a UK University

Abstract

In coaching there is a lack of research that focuses specifically on the experience of coaches working with non-traditional students in Higher Education in the UK. Heuristic Inquiry draws upon the experience and perspective of coaches to gain a better understanding of the nuances of coaching non-traditional students. Coaches reported some challenges in applying the coaching intervention such as: lack of goals; emotions; and awareness of cultural differences. This study makes recommendations for alternative coaching approaches, supervision and training designed to diversify coaching approaches that can support the development of coaching competencies for coaches who are supporting non-traditional students in HE.

Keywords

• coaching
• higher education
• non-traditional students
• non-judgement
• intercultural sensitivity