Stephanie Fleischer

Student absenteeism: whose responsibility?

Internationally there is concern about levels of student absenteeism. Research underpinning this article consisted of a survey of academic staff and 25 interviews with first year students in a well regarded ‘new’ university in Britain. The article explores the issue of poor attendance and why a significant number of students seem to have difficulty in engaging fully with their studies in order to become critical and autonomous learners. We look at the role of government policy, institutions, educators, students, schools and parents.

A path analysis of first-year social science students’ engagement with their degree and Level 1 academic outcome

Abstract The expansion of higher education in the UK and attempts to widen participation have changed the context of undergraduate learning. This study examines student engagement with their degree. Quantitative data for 388 UK Level 1 students were used to develop a path analysis model of the relationship between Level 1 academic performance, gender, academic engagement, attendance and prior university entry points. Structural equation modelling allowed a detailed understanding of the direct and indirect effects of key variables that contribute to Level 1 learning outcomes, and findings are discussed within the context of structural changes to Level 1 student engagement imperatives with a view to improving the learning experience for all students.