Claire Gray & Julie Swain – Academic Partnerships, Plymouth University

1. Supporting student progression from college to university honours Claire Gray & Julie Swain – Academic Partnerships, Plymouth University

2. Context • Sub degree provision – Foundation Degree • Target of 100,000 learners (2000 – 2010) • Confirmed Progression route at Approval • Local context approx: 1000 students per year

3. Transition • Change in physical / cultural environment • Change in pedagogy • Adjustment can be very ‘stressful/daunting’

4. Project Aims • Research and support current practice of progression • To identify and target support needs of students progression to support a positive transition process • Pre-induction strategies / integration with the university – including the development of tools and networks to suit user needs • To offer a supported learning journey through appropriate social and academic engagement opportunities which will support and aid retention.

5. Objectives • Work collaboratively with the students to address and identify the challenges (pre and post transition) • To work with student ambassadors to identify ‘What they wished they had known’ • To develop e-resources to support the process for both staff and students

6. Methods – 18 month data collection • Short open questionnaire (prior to focus group) • Focus groups in college – variety of subject areas • Semi structured interviews with staff • Focus groups once ‘topped up’ from sub-degree – mixed subject groups

7. Student decision making • Qualification and achievement i.e. gaining an Honours degree • Financial considerations, particularly tuition fees • Academic factors i.e. course content, academic satisfaction, subject interest, new options for study etc.

8. Main concerns • Practical arrangements particularly around logistical issues such as sorting out travel and accommodation, as well as general financial concerns • Academic performance including issues around learning support and safely moving through progression • Personal matters, with concerns expressed about achieving an appropriate work-life balance, effects on (or of) relationships, and health and well-being issues • No fears or concerns!

9. Findings • Importance of support within college – established link to development of identity • Challenge of developing a university awareness and identity – from campus navigation to subject specific ie: handing in coursework / fieldtrips – development of community

10. Findings Importance of support within college – well Students would like access to: • One central hub • Timely information – to assist with preparation • Easily accessible signposted resources Programme handbook specific information • Easy to navigate - under one link • Sent out via email university / college • Both generic and subject based information

11. Progression Tool • Importance www.studywithplymouth.ac.uk/progression A Central hub - Signposting

12. Raising Awareness • Student Checklist • Direct entrant progression guide • Staff Booklet – Progression 2 Plymouth (P2P)