ABSTRACT
This conclusion presents some closing thoughts on the key concepts discussed in the preceding chapters of this book. The book approaches the ethnic attainment question from a realist philosophical position. It focuses on the statistical research data on student attainment, that is, the way in which statistical data on attainment is researched and reported, to explore ethnic attainment differences in British higher education. Current methods of researching and reporting statistical data on student attainment are flawed to such an extent that neither researchers, academics nor university policy makers can legitimately talk of an 'ethnic' attainment gap in British higher education. Student grouping refers to the way students group when interacting and making friends in learning situations. Social indoctrination designed to address social ills politicises education. Discussion and debate are essential to interpret experiences, clarify issues, understand the grounds upon which opinions are based, identify points of tension, expand the boundaries of understanding and ultimately make decisions about policy and practice.
