To improve retention and program performance outcomes for university students, it is important to understand their transition to university. Connecting with first-year students, this project seeks to understand the variables affecting commencing student belonging and their transition experience within subjects. 

The challenge

While universities aspire to enhance social mobility and access to education, research shows substantial challenges students face with belonging and engagement in their transition to university. Moreover, the Covid-19 environment has significantly disrupted the learning journey, with a higher proportion of commencing students not returning to university in their second year. This study examines the undergraduate and postgraduate business student transition experience, focusing on the association between belonging developed in first year, and student retention and learning outcomes. 

Solution 

To investigate this issue, the research team will conduct a large-scale survey of first-year business students enrolled in the MBA and Bachelor of Business at the University of Technology Sydney. The survey will be undertaken over three time periods and comprise closed questions to understand the variables affecting commencing student belonging and transition experience within subjects. To close the loop on survey insights, two co-design focus groups will be conducted with students.

Outcome and impact

This research will contribute to theoretical understandings about how business students’ transition experiences affect both retention and program performance outcomes, and provide evidence-based strategies to uplift such outcomes. The project aligns with the UTS Business School’s 2021–2027 focus area of education and student experience – preparing students as innovative, competent and socially responsible leaders for their chosen careers.

Meet the research team

Research impacts

United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs)

UN SDG icon: Goal 4. Quality education

Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all

Acknowledgement of Country

UTS acknowledges the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation, the Boorooberongal people of the Dharug Nation, the Bidiagal people and the Gamaygal people, upon whose ancestral lands our university stands. We would also like to pay respect to the Elders both past and present, acknowledging them as the traditional custodians of knowledge for these lands.