2.4. Progression from Level 1 to Level 2 Physics
A first look at the data showed that in 2006-07, a typical year, some 37% of the
level 1 physics class progressed into the level 2 physics class the subsequent year. If
one multiplies the passrate stated in Section 2.3 with the ‘intention on entry’ figure
from Section 2.2, one should expect a direct progression rate of approximately 37%. The
question is whether or not that figure can be improved.
3. Learning Support for First Year
The primary aim in introducing a comprehensive system of learning support was
to enhance the department’s effective learning environments by identifying ‘at-risk’
students as well as to provide extra targeted academic support [4].
One aspect of the Scottish educational system is level 1 university students are
typically 17-18 years old compared to those in England and Wales who are, on average,
18-19 years old. It has long been recognised that the some of the younger students can
find it difficult to cope with the transition from a well-structured secondary education
to the more flexible lifestyle at university [5]. The assessment data from previous
years provided evidence that some students failed level 1 physics not because they were
intellectually incapable but because they did not submit required continuous assessment
work on time or, indeed, at all. Discussions with students in higher years revealed that
the failure to submit required work on time was often due to the student being unaware
that a deadline existed or that the work was required, even though these had been
communicated on multiple occasions and in many ways.