Current Research
We are currently engaged in a number of research projects, focusing on our main areas of interest: widening participation and student retention.
Widening participation at the University of Glasgow
In following the progress of first year students from areas with low participation in higher education over five years (2004/05 – 2008/09) we contribute to the evaluation of university preparation programmes such as Top-Up and Pre-University Summer School. We aim to inform widening participation and student support initiatives.
Pre-entry telephone contact with first-year students
We have carried out pre-entry telephone interviews with new engineering students over three years. Based on the principles of positive psychology, new students are asked to reflect on their achievements and expectations to enhance enthusiasm and motivation for starting their university programme.
This work continues on from the successful pilot during a Learning and Teaching Development Fund project in 2007/08, and has been funded by the Faculty of Engineering in subsequent sessions. We co-presented a workshop at the 3rd annual University of Glasgow Learning and Teaching Conference. Click link for presentation
Exploring links between personal attributes and the first year student experience
Studies have shown that success at university is about much more than simply previous academic attainment. Determination, motivation and self-confidence are important. To investigate further the impact of personal attributes we have surveyed new entrants to undergraduate or postgraduate programmes at the University of Glasgow using standard validated measures, with the help of the Centre for Confidence and Well-being. We presented preliminary findings at the 3rd annual University of Glasgow Learning and Teaching Conference - Click link for presentation
Retention Working Group
We also carry out institutional research in support of the University’s Retention Working Group, which focuses mainly on the first-year student experience.
For further information contact:
Dr Lynn Walker (Lynn.Walker@glasgow.ac.uk)
Alison Browitt (Alison.Browitt@glasgow.ac.uk)