What did new students think of their first year experience at ANU?

The findings of the 2008 First Year Experience Questionnaire suggest 'new to university' students are, overall, very satisfied with their university experience. Some new trends are emerging with first year students, and there are also some consistent experiences with previous first year cohorts.

2008 First Year Cohort

An increased percentage of respondents feel their program is well organised and more students believe that lecturers are making good use of the web to support learning.

More first year students are reporting that worrying about money has made it difficult for them to concentrate on study. Students are working longer hours in paid work, and an increasing number feel that paid work severely interferes with study.

A larger percentage of first year students are frequently overwhelmed by all they have to do when compared to previous years’ surveys and an increased proportion of the first year cohort find it difficult to get motivated. However, this has not yet translated to an increased proportion of students considering deferral or discontinuation of study.

While computer access is still high, there has been a decline in reported levels of satisfactory access to computers at the university, which may be the result of increased time spent online for study and recreation.

Consistent First Year Experiences

Students report favourably on the quality of teaching and generally agree that academic staff are enthusiastic and approachable. They are somewhat less happy with the frequency and helpfulness of feedback from academics and staff interest in their progress.

Many students believe lectures are a valuable source of learning and feel that compiled notes and course readings are useful. However, they have identified that they would like more online learning materials.

Report prepared by: Leone Nurbasari, Information Analyst, Statistical Services, November 2008 T: 54579