First-Year Experience Co-ordinator Presents Study Paper at Conference

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An Investigation of Approaches that Contribute to Success for Disadvantaged Students in the College of Law and Management Studies (CLMS) at UKZN was the title of a paper presented at a conference in East London.

The presentation was made by the CLMS’s First-Year Experience (FYE) Co-ordinator Ms Phethego Makaleng at the 8^th annual SA National Resource Centre (SANRC) for First-Year Experience and Students in Transition Conference.

SANRC believes that the first year of study is pivotal for students in their overall Higher Education journey. To support this, the organisation hosted the conference to improve student success in South Africa by developing and disseminating research in the field of FYE working with different institutions of Higher Education.

Makaleng conducted research for the paper with other FYE Co-ordinators in the CLMS, Mr Simangaliso Zulu and Mr Thanduxolo Mbili.

‘Our study approach was in line with the sub-theme which examined interventions and approaches which could be implemented to support a more coherent approach and ultimately to enhance a student’s overall Higher Education journey, especially for first-years from disadvantaged backgrounds,’ said Makaleng.

According to their findings collected through group discussions involving 30 undergraduate students from Schools within the CLMS, the shift from high school to university is demanding for students who need to make various academic and social adaptations. Unlike the structured environment of high school, universities expect students to take charge of their learning, think critically and solve problems independently.

The study also highlighted that students needed to manage their academic workload while taking part in social activities in order to fully embrace the university experience and reach their educational objectives.

‘Although this learning curve presents opportunities for exploration and personal development for first-time entering students (FTENS), it demands discipline, resilience, and self-confidence,’ said Makaleng.

She said through their study they hoped to reveal that FTENS were likely to achieve more through being exposed to mentorship programmes, counselling and financial assistance and would develop techniques to help them be academically successful.

Words: Samukelisiwe Cele

Photograph: Supplied