Three techniques to facilitate student transition - Transcript

Transition is recognised to be vital to student learning, satisfaction and progression. Entering higher education, or re-entering as a postgraduate, can be a daunting time for students who are often unsure what is expected from them, and may find it difficult to grasp expectations, or develop a sense of belonging.

In this MicroCPD, I will focus on three proven techniques which can be used in the first few weeks of the academic year or module, but also as the year progresses, to help students feel at ease and gain confidence to participate: the ‘soft start’, an introductory exercise, and enabling participation.

First, the ‘soft start’

A soft start can be as simple as welcoming students by name, asking a simple starter question, encouraging small talk, or using humour or an icebreaker.

Second, an introductory exercise

I often use an elicitation exercise, and ask students to share an object (an image, artefact or piece of music for example) that reveals something about their connection to the module, and helps them to begin to learn through the exchange of ideas.

Third, enabling preparation

I enable preparation by developing clear and directive preparatory tasks, and assigning consistent study groups to allow students to meet and rehearse their ideas prior to in-class discussion.