Preprint
Investigating the role of university diplomas in students' academic lives
SSRN Electronic Journal, Vol.Series Paper No.16
Southern Cross University Scholarship of Learning and Teaching Research Paper Series, Elsevier
11/06/2024
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Abstract
University diplomas provide pathways into university study for a range of students, including a high proportion of students in so-called equity groups. However, there is a paucity of research investigating how university diplomas impact students and their academic lives. The current study used a mixed-method approach to understand how diplomas benefit students at a regional Australian university. Both quantitative and qualitative findings demonstrated that students found the diplomas to be beneficial for beginning their university careers and their overall academic success. Students reported that the holistic support offered in the foundational units and across the institution was integral to their success. Similarly, the flexibility in study options allowed them to attain an education while balancing additional responsibilities, such as work and family commitments. Students that completed university diplomas also went on to have higher success rates and GPAs in their subsequent bachelor degrees than students who had not completed a diploma. The use of a clear pedagogical approach in curriculum design is essential to support diploma students throughout their academic journey. This study adds support to the notion that diploma programs can help prepare students, particularly non-traditional university students, for success in academic study.
Details
- Title
- Investigating the role of university diplomas in students' academic lives
- Creators
- Johanna Nieuwoudt (Author) - Southern Cross University, SCU CollegeGrant Andrews (Author) - Southern Cross University, SCU CollegeRikki Quinn (Author) - Southern Cross University, SCU CollegeSuzi C Syme (Author) - Southern Cross University, SCU College
- Publication Details
- SSRN Electronic Journal, Vol.Series Paper No.16
- Series
- Southern Cross University Scholarship of Learning and Teaching Research Paper Series
- Publisher
- Elsevier
- Number of pages
- 23
- Identifiers
- 991013196813802368
- Academic Unit
- SCU College
- Language
- English
- Resource Type
- Preprint
- Local Fields
- Original Research - SoLT