Founded in 2016, Arden University offers a sector-leading, flexible blended learning study model which attracts large numbers of BME and mature students at five UK study centres. In addition, “pure” distance learning (DL) has delivered consistent growth year on year.
An attitudinal market segmentation was conducted in 2015, focusing on the entire higher education market which identified six segments. Arden wished to develop their DL offer in particular and wanted to understand whether the original segmentation was still relevant.
In 2020, Turquoise ran a study for Arden University creating a five-segment solution covering course choice motivation, potential barriers, and how well they progress at Arden University.
Since this segmentation was created, there had been changes in both Arden University’s strategic direction and also to the key stakeholders. Therefore, we were asked to undertake a further refresh of the student segmentation in 2022.
The original segmentation in 2020 and the 2022 segmentation were completed using an online methodology targeting both current and prospective students of Arden. For the 2022 refreshed study based on student attitudes and needs, a robust sample of 1,225 students was achieved.
We used latent class analysis to form the segments and employed a range of research analysis techniques: correlation and regression (key driver), k-means cluster analysis, significance testing cross-tabs.
Once we had a good understanding of the types of variables we wanted to use, we started creating segmentation models using a combination of these variables. All promising segmentations were then profiled against the survey questions to decide which was the most meaningful segmentation in terms of a clear profile/story behind each segment that would be actionable for Arden. The Bayesian Information Criterion (BIC) was used as a guide for the optimum number of segments within each model.
A new, improved, 6-segment model was created in 2022 which differentiates more effectively by learning mode. Arden were provided with a set of ‘golden questions’ which can be used in future research to assign respondents to one of the identified segments from this study.
Equally by using the combination of learning type, motivations, barriers and attitudes it allows Arden optimum efficiency of messaging to help drive applications to the University which will support Arden in their vision of challenging the traditional HE sector bringing even better value and choice to students.
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