How can universities stop first years from dropping out? Help them become more independent learners
“Equipping university students for the digitally-focused workplace of the future needs to be a key priority”
First years are struggling with independent learning. In fact, nearly 40% of students in their first year identify this as an area of concern – according to the results of a survey Student Voices we conducted in collaboration with research consultancy Shift Learning – which looked at students’ aspirations, needs and experiences.
This is perhaps not surprising considering most new students come directly from college into HE where there is generally more guided support.
However, with the drop-out rate of university students who give up their studies within 12 months on the rise for the third consecutive year – addressing factors that may help keep students in uni are key and could include:
- looking at the main areas for which they seek help
- what they need to achieve their goals and
- how they like to study