Pascal, from its European hub based at the University of Stirling, played an important role in this recent seminar series, leading on the first two of the four themes covered in the series.

The aim of the series was in part to act as a scoping exercise for a much larger study looking at the social, cultural and economic effects universities can have on their localities and regions and the people living there. Extensive literature searches were carried out and provided the basis for discussion at two UK-wide seminars held, designed to bring academics and practitioners together.

Essentially, the questions being asked were: do we know whether universities make a difference and if so, how is that difference characterised and measured? In particular, the distinction was made between outputs – relatively easy to identify – and outcomes, which it was found are much harder even to agree on, with judgments about success more difficult still to ascertain. It was agreed more information is needed.

A mixed methods approach was favoured to gather both quantitative and qualitative data – with the latter providing the opportunity to ‘mine’ for explanations of the former – as the most effective approach to obtaining the answers sought. Pascal’s experience in these collaborative projects made it possible for Professor Mike Osborne and Dr. Lesley Doyle to play an active role in helping to steer the project, produce the literature reviews and bring academic and practitioners together to discuss how universities could play a greater part in transforming disadvantaged communities. 

A full report is found at http://www.esrcsocietytoday.ac.uk/ESRCInfoCentre/Forums/attach.aspx?a=269