Abstract
Phillipa Sturgess 14.00 800x600 The shift in Australian higher education policy to widen participation and ensure equity across all student cohorts has led to the need for specific, structured transition programs. The First Year Advisor Network at Murdoch University in Perth, Australia has designed and implemented a transition program for commencing students called UniEdge. The aims of the program are: (1) to help foster a sense of community for first year students; (2) to make new students aware of the support services available; and (3) to improve the confidence and preparedness of new students. The program has received high praise from students, but rates of attendance have been problematic. By reflecting on student and staff feedback, the program has been adapted over multiple semesters, resulting in increased student attendance and therefore a greater impact on the first year experience at Murdoch University. Normal 0 false false false EN-AU X-NONE X-NONE
Highlights
The landscape of higher education is rapidly shifting
In Australia, there has been a recent focus on widening participation and increasing the number of non-traditional, mature-age and low socioeconomic status (LSES) students (Bradley, Noonan, Nugent & Scales, 2008; Stone & O’Shea, 2013)
Students receive information about university support services and connect with other first-year students from their course (James Cook University, 2013). Another example is the UniSkills transition program offered by the University of Western Australia in Perth, Australia, which is only open to students who meet certain eligibility criteria
Summary
The landscape of higher education is rapidly shifting. Student populations at universities locally, nationally and internationally are becoming more diverse (Yorke & Thomas, 2010). Many universities across Australia have developed transition programs aimed at equipping students with the skills and information necessary for academic success and to enable community building opportunities.
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