On premature withdrawal : arresting attrition rates in Psychology I
Date
2001
Authors
Kaye, John Desmond
Honor, Jill
Idol, Anita R.
Editors
Advisors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Type:
Conference paper
Citation
Learn2001 Symposium, 5-6 November, 2001 / Adelaide University's Learning and Teaching
Statement of Responsibility
Conference Name
Learn2001 Symposium (2001 : Adelaide, Australia)
Abstract
Psychology I currently has the largest enrolment of any course offered by this University and draws its students from a broad range of degree programs and faculties. The psychology department is, therefore, concerned with the high attrition rate in Psychology, an attrition rate which has an adverse effect across faculties, incurring both avoidable cost penalties and financial loss.
This paper reports on the first phase of a longitudinal study to:
locate sources of student dissatisfaction with the Psychology I course
institute and evaluate improvements in the course contents, teaching practice and learning environment.
The first phase focuses on the responses to a questionnaire administered to students who have withdrawn from Psychology I during the first semester of their studies.
The questionnaire aimed to establish:
sources of satisfaction and dissatisfaction with the course
whether there is a mismatch between student expectations and course content
whether teaching methods meet student needs
whether students experience particular difficulties with teaching materials and course content
level of interest in the curriculum
whether students are receiving sufficient help and constructive feedback
the nature of interpersonal climate within the Psychology Department - do students have sufficient access or interaction with staff and is the atmosphere experienced as student-friendly
School/Discipline
School of Psychology