Changing students' perception of Economics by facilitating their transition to university

Abstract

Universities in Australia are encouraging initiatives and developing strategies to assist students in the transition stage of their studies. In addition, Economics as an area of university study in Australia and in major industrial countries confronts the problem of the decline in student enrollments and degrees awarded. This paper assesses the effectiveness of the introduction of an Economics Orientation Tutorial incorporated in the Transition Program as a means of dealing with general transition issues and in altering the negative perception of Economics, which influences enrollments beyond the compulsory first year Economics courses. Using questionnaire responses by students in evaluating the transition program it is demonstrated that the Orientation Tutorial, not only assisted in general transition issues but also has made some inroads in reducing the negative perception of Economics. This study's relevance to other disciplines is also investigated.