Six-week introductory programme of activity led learning to improve student engagement and retention

摘要

The Faculty of Engineering and Computing at Coventry University is currently operating a number of initiatives to improve student satisfaction and retention. For new students, early assimilation and engagement are seen as key to successful study.Previous teaching innovations involving ‘problem–based’ methods were employed in the Automotive Engineering Design course in the early 1990’s and much of the ethos and activities supporting it have remained embedded in the course and also practiced more widely in allied courses. This approach was developed and packaged into a six-week introductory Activity-Led-Learning (ALL) programme. 100 first year students from courses in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering and Automotive Engineering Design, organised into six groups, underwent a series of six Monday –Friday exercises, each assessed on completion. A team of 16 staff delivered the programme which accounted for 18 hours (of 27-29) on the student timetable.A subsequent student survey demonstrated a net improvement in satisfaction compared to a 2006/7 survey, and particular acclaim for ‘activity’, ‘group work’, and ‘teaching methodology’. Indeed, 74% of student indicated a preference for more of this kind of learning. The exercises formed the major part of a core module for which the pass rate at first exam board was 96% (78% the previous year). Subsequently, student progression to stage 2 was 76% (72% previous year). Staff identified ‘enthusiasm for competitive elements’ and ‘attendance patterns’ as notable aspects of behavioural engagement. The results will guide the application of the ALL approach across the Faculty.