Science Students: Making the transition from high school to university
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Date
2007-08
Authors
Montgomery, Jeannie B.
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Abstract
This qualitative study, grounded in phenomenology, investigated the
experiences of first and second year university science students as they made
the transition from high school to university, an area of research that has
received less attention than earlier school transitions. The purpose of the study
was to gain knowledge about aspects of their education both at high school and
at university that might inform future practices related to school/university
transitions. The primary source of data for the study was in-depth, semistructured
interviews. Document analysis of curriculum guides for core science
subjects and both high school and university course outlines provided supporting
data. Thematic analysis of the interview transcripts, using a grounded theory
approach, revealed that students were generally satisfied with their high school
education in terms of curriculum covered. Analysis of the curriculum documents
showed a significant correlation between the curriculum at high school and
university and thus supported the students' observations about curriculum
coherence between the two levels. Students' concerns related to their
preparation for university focused on the following: studying, independent work
habits, problem solving, and critical thinking. The students critiqued their
university teachers in regard to their over-reliance on exams for assessment and
evaluation, and the dominance of teacher-directed methodologies that limit
classroom interaction. Insights from this study will help to inform my future
teaching practices. More broadly, the results may guide changes at the high
school and university levels that may contribute to a smoother transition from
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high school to university leading to better student performance, reduced drop out
rates, and increased interest in science programs.
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Keywords
Entrance requirements , College , University , Scholastic success , Academic achievement , Nova Scotia , Education , Students , Science