Student transition to university : difficulties experienced by students following science and engineering courses

Abstract

Each year a high drop-out rate is registered from courses offered by the Faculty of Engineering and the Faculty of Science (courses requiring Mathematics and Physics A-levels as entry requirements). This study attempted to identify the factors which result in the resignation from these courses. What difficulties were students encountering during their studies? Does possession of the Matriculation Certificate guarantee the required skills and qualifications so as to successfully pursue these courses? What other entry requirements or strategies would have helped during the transition from post-secondary level to university? How did students who had successfully finished these courses cope with the situation and what did they do differently? The data were gathered by means of eight interviews and 282 questionnaires. Students currently enrolled in the two courses, others who had already finished their studies, students who dropped out together with lecturers, were interviewed. The questionnaires were filled by students who at the time of the study were enrolled in the courses. Some of the findings included the need for better communication between post-secondary institutes and University, a need for restructuring and revision of the engineering and science courses, a more student-focused approach in teaching, the introduction of bridging programs in order to ease the transition for students following these courses, and the development of different coping strategies and skills in students.