Research Projects

Overview

From 27th to 30th November 2024, the Department of Women's Studies, Bharathidasan University, Khajamalai Campus, Tiruchirappalli, and the Women's Studies Centre (funded by UGC), Holy Cross College (Autonomous), Tiruchirappalli, jointly participated in the Annual Status of Higher Education (ASER) Survey 2024. The ASER Survey focuses on assessing the status of higher education in rural areas, with a particular emphasis on access, enrollment, and the socio-economic barriers that impact educational opportunities.

Orientation Session

On 27th and 28th November 2024, the ASER staff conducted an orientation session in Department of Women's Studies, Bharathidasan University, Khajamalai Campus, Tiruchirappalli, for the participating students, where they were introduced to the survey methodology, data collection techniques, and the importance of gathering accurate information. The session also covered how to engage with the local communities, conduct interviews, and ensure data reliability. This orientation was crucial in preparing the students for the fieldwork that followed.

Field Work

Following the training, on 29th and 30th November 2024, the students participated in the fieldwork across five rural locations: Lalgudi, Manachanallur, Mahilambadi, Nerujalakudi, and Anadhanallur. They interacted with students, parents, and teachers to assess various aspects of higher education, including enrollment rates, available resources, challenges faced by students—particularly women—and the level of awareness about educational schemes and opportunities in these areas.

Recognition & Compensation

In recognition of their participation, all students involved in the survey received a certificate of participation. In addition, they were also compensated for their efforts with a stipend for their time and work during the field survey.

Impact & Learning

This hands-on experience allowed the students to apply their academic knowledge to real-world research and provided them with valuable insights into the educational challenges faced by rural communities, particularly regarding women's access to higher education. The data collected will play an important role in contributing to the national ASER Survey 2024, offering valuable information that can inform future educational policies and initiatives aimed at improving access to higher education in rural India.

The collaborative effort not only contributed to the ASER Survey but also empowered the students by offering practical skills in field research, data collection, and community engagement, further enhancing their understanding of gender issues in education.