Muslim women in higher education institutions in Britain

There is an under-representation of Muslim women in higher education in the UK. Growing cultural barriers and religious restrictions are leaving Muslim women with limited choices. The issue of choice lies within the scope of production and reproduction of inequalities (Ahmad, 2007).
This project aims to understand, in a structured way, the reasons behind poorer representation of Muslim females in higher educational institutions in Britain. This study will use various frameworks to understand that what, if done differently, can help mobilise Muslim females to pursue careers in higher education in Britain.
1- What are Muslim women's experiences in higher education in Britain and how do these differ from non- Muslim women?
2- Are there any differences in experience in higher education between Muslim women from various geographic backgrounds?
3- What are the perceived barriers amongst Muslim females in the pursuit of higher education in Britain and how those barriers affect their lives?
4- What are the needs of Muslim women in higher education in Britain?
5- What changes, if implemented, can improve their experience of higher education and, ultimately representation of Muslim females in higher educational institutions in Britain?

This research will underline the issues of how certain Muslim students, particularly hijab-wearing Muslim women, could feel isolated and withdrawn from the campus culture, as well as how they encountered some discriminating views. Some past events will be studied that Muslim women faced in higher education within Britain and its consequences to examine the situation for a better future.

This project will be a mixed-methods design comprised of a survey of Muslim females in Britain. Extensive literature review would be carried out to understand pre-existing knowledge on this issue. A pilot questionnaire will be developed and tested which would then inform final survey questionnaire. It would include a combination of question types to establish quantitative as well qualitative assessment of lived experiences of affected Muslim individuals. Option for free-hand text/comments would also be included to capture richness of personal experiences, perceptions, and thoughts for future improvements.
The semi-structured interviews will be a mixture of telephone and/or face to face (subject to social distancing restrictions). Some common interview questions would be agreed in advance however there would be an opportunity to allow further questions to capture real life stories and experiences of Muslim women. A possibility of recording these interviews (with appropriate consent) will also be explored.

Data analysis will be carried out using SPSS as well as other statistical programmes agreed in consultation with supervisor.
This project's new understanding is anticipated to make a major impact among Muslim female communities in Britain as it will form the basis of recommendations for higher educational institutions, NGOs, community organisations, and government to formulate appropriate action plans to address this inequality. It is only through the development of a diverse higher educational workforce that academic institutions can thrive and prepare themselves for the challenges of future to be able to cater to the needs of all communities and gender groups.