OnTrack to science literacy: Addressing the diverse needs of non-traditional students engaged in an Australian pre-university enabling program

Lisciandro, J. and Gibbs, G.F. (2014) OnTrack to science literacy: Addressing the diverse needs of non-traditional students engaged in an Australian pre-university enabling program. In: 17th International First Year in Higher Education conference (FYHE) 2014, 6 – 9 July 2014, Darwin Convention & Exhibition Centre, Darwin

Abstract

In recent years, enrolments in ‘OnTrack’ - Murdoch University’s pre-university enabling program - have substantially increased; and the study choices of these students diversified, with many students choosing to commence undergraduate science programs. Concurrently, the university’s commitment to developing an ‘interdisciplinary perspective’ in undergraduates has strengthened. These changes necessitated the inclusion of a curriculum module focused on developing scientific literacy to be undertaken by all ‘OnTrack’ students. However, the nature of this module required careful thought as the ‘OnTrack’ student cohort is characterised by diverse interests, aspirations, attitudes and past educational experiences related to science learning. In this session, the authors discuss their rationale for using an “everyday science” approach, rather than the traditional “pipeline” science approach in designing this module. There is ongoing research into the success of this approach in facilitating both student engagement in learning about science and opportunities for transformative learning.

Item Type:	Conference Paper
Murdoch Affiliation(s):	Centre for University Teaching and Learning
URI:	http://researchrepository.murdoch.edu.au/id/eprint/33031

Item Control Page

Downloads