Challenges I Have Observed

Throughout my own journey in further education, I have observed that people can face significant challenges when transitioning from second level education to university or returning to further education as mature students. These challenges are related to understanding and getting to grips with academic skills or the digital divide which exists in today’s technologically-enhanced society.

One of the primary challenges that individuals face is the gap between the level of academic skills required in university and what they have learned in second level education. In many cases, students who come from secondary school may not be adequately prepared for the academic rigor of university-level coursework. For example, they may struggle with academic writing, critical thinking, and research skills.

Independent Learning in Further Education

The significant amount of independent learning required in university, Unlike in secondary school, can prove challenging also. In second level education, teachers provide significant amount of support and guidance, whereas students in university are expected to be self-directed in their learning. They must manage their time effectively and take responsibility for their own learning, including reading and researching beyond what is demonstrated in the classroom.

Returning to Education

Mature students returning to education from the workforce face similar challenges. They may have been out of education for many years and have lost touch with the academic skills necessary for success in university. Additionally, they may face the added challenge of juggling academic demands with work and family responsibilities.

Addressing these Challenges

To address these challenges, it is important for universities and education providers to offer support to students who are transitioning from second-level education or returning to further education as mature students. This support could include pre-university or pre-course preparation courses designed to help students develop the necessary academic skills before starting university or additional support provided to first year or mature student cohorts. This could be in the form of academic writing workshops, study skills seminars, and one-to-one tutoring. For mature students accommodations such such as flexible schedules, online classes, and childcare facilities can make this transition easier.

Supports

With the right support, students can develop the academic skills necessary for success in university, and mature students can successfully balance the demands of work, family, and education. As education providers, it is our responsibility to ensure that students have access to the support they need to succeed in their academic endeavours. In my own practice, I have devised Introductory Academic Skills workshops which cover the Higher Education Transition, fundamentals of research and writing in academia and referencing skills. These have been delivered in Colleges of Further Education to great success.

Click below for more information about our Introductory Academic Skills workshops and don’t hesitate to get in touch with any queries or to make a booking.