Survey of Level 3 students in construction-related subjects
LEAD ORGANISATION
ADDITIONAL ORGANISATIONS INVOLVED
Amersham & Wycombe College, Aylesbury College, BCA (Berkshire College of Agriculture), Guildford College
PROJECT SUMMARY
This study focused on a small sample group of students studying Level 3 programmes in construction-related subjects. The study set out to gather information on the students' educational background, why they had chosen to study a construction-related course and their future aspirations, together with their understanding of the HE options open to them. The aim was, through three different activities, to focus the students' attention on their goals and to raise their awareness of the progression routes open to them. The longer-term goal was to use the information gathered to make recommendations for future LLN activities that could encourage and facilitate greater progression for Level 3 students particularly those following construction-related programmes.
46 students took part, from 4 FE Colleges in Progress South Central's region: Amersham & Wycombe College, Aylesbury College, BCA (Berkshire College of Agriculture) and Guildford College. They were studying Level 3 courses in Bricklaying, Carpentry, Construction, Painting and Decorating, and Plumbing.
The aim was to develop an interactive and fun research session that gave students information that might be useful in planning their future. The students undertook three activities:
- Pairs of students interviewed each other, according to a pre-set format, about their educational background, reasons for studying their current course and their future plans
- Students were asked 4 questions relating to progression and their understanding of certain qualifications (e.g. Foundation degrees)
- Students completed timed activity in groups (the 'Progression Game') - using cards, they were asked to match qualifications to qualification levels
IMPACT
80% of the students fed back that they had found the information provided in the session 'Excellent' or 'Very Good'.
The majority of students believed that they were clear about their progression routes - but this seems to have been because they were not fully aware of what was available to them. Although the research carried out appears to have raised awareness, it has also identified a need to carry out more awareness-raising interventions.
LINK TO FULLER REPORT