We are changing our referencing style to make things easier and more consistent for students. There are many versions of the Harvard referencing style. Our version, Coventry Harvard, was only used by our University and this sometimes created confusion for students on which Harvard style to use for their assignments. With APA, there is a standard style which is clearer for students to follow.
APA is a standard style, used in lots of universities and academic journals. Using APA means that:
OSCOLA is used by Law students. This is another standard style, used across legal education and the legal profession in the UK.
The Referencing Switch Team consulted with students, staff from schools in all four faculties at Coventry University, and staff from across the wider Coventry University Group. We offered a variety of options, and everyone agreed that APA would be the best style to switch to.