Enhancement Projects 2015-2016
A call was put out for projects that involved enhancement work which reflected the QAA Enhancement Theme: Student Transitions, Phase 2. The following projects were successful:
Understanding International Student Transition to Higher Education using Collaborative Techniques
The transition to study at a UK university can be relatively smooth and uncomplicated, but for some, including international students, it can be stressful. This research used collaborative group work techniques along with focus group discussions to gather information. A collaborative drawing technique known as a “rich picture” (RP) was employed in order to gather analytical insights into student transitions. This project reveals how picturing stories offers capacity to communicate, irrespective of possible language, culture and education barriers.
Report: Understanding International Student Transition to Higher Education using Collaborative Techniques by Dr Tessa Berg, School of Mathematical and Computer Sciences
The Student as Assessment Creator
Dr Jim Cameron, EPS
Development of Peerwise use in Level 2 Chemistry courses in aiding the transition from passive to active learning.
Online content to support MSc transitions
This project builds on previous Enhancement work related to student induction and retention within the School. Online content consisting of short, virtual, interactive mini-lectures (SVLs), MSc project podcasts and short interviews with teaching staff will be developed to aid student transitions to MSc programmes across the School of Engineering and Physical Sciences.
Report: Online content to support MSc transitions by Dr Gudrun Kocher-Oberlehner, School of Engineering and Physical Sciences
Transition of automated feedback and marking into student's learning environment
This is the second phase of a project concerned with the problem of how to provide timely and constructive feedback to first year Computer Science (CS) students by developing an automated feedback framework.
Report: Transition of automated feedback and marking into student's learning environment by Dr Gudmund Grov, School of Mathematical and Computer Sciences
"Experience Counts" - Making that transition
This project produced a video tool that will disseminate the real life experiences of students’ learning, capturing personal insights of recent transitions from College to University. The aim of the video is to present students with the experiences of others who have recently undergone significant transitions which hold valuable learning experiences.
Report: "Experience Counts" - Making that transition by Mr Darren Cunningham, School of Mathematical and Computer Sciences
Peer Mentoring
The problem addressed in this project is the need to develop transition support for new students who are entering university. Successful transition and integration into the academic and social life of university are key determining factors in student retention, progression and achievement. These also influence the quality of the student experience more generally.
Report: Peer Mentoring by Mr Keith MacAskill, Student Support and Accommodation Services
Lost in Space
The key issue being addressed is easing the transition of Direct Entry students between F.E. and H.E. and improving the quality of their learning experience at Heriot-Watt University by ameliorating student integration and improving student retention rates. In addition, the project aims to improve the transition of all students through the final two years of their education and on into employment or further study upon graduation.
Report: Lost in Space by Mrs Fiona Pankhurst, School of Textiles and Design