REAP: Researching Equity, Access and Participation.

REAP explores widening access to learning amongst excluded groups of learners of all ages. Our research pays particular attention to issues of disability, gender, social class, race and ethnicity. We consider the cultural, social and economic barriers experienced by individuals seeking access to learning and the ways in which policy and practice impact upon learners
We work to explore the factors contributing to exclusion from learning as well as looking at the ways in which barriers to participation can be removed.  We use our research findings to inform policy makers and those committed to greater social justice in all learning environments.  We adopt an inclusive approach and at the same time as sharing our knowledge and experience, we are open to learning from the experiences and practice of others.
We work collaboratively and in partnership with individuals and organisations interested in equity, access and participation. We have undertaken the evaluation of a range of projects. We use our research to develop materials and resources for practitioners in education, parents, carers and families, as well as the individual learners themselves.
REAP's work is diverse and spans across the interests of the Department of Educational Research based in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences.
REAP works in conjunction with the Department's research centres for:

• Social Justice and Wellbeing in Education
• Higher Education Research and Evaluation
• Technology Enhanced Learning

REAP was formerly known as the Community Access Programme (CAP).