Development of an Online Orientation Tool for First Year Science Students: Transitioning for Success

Abstract

This paper investigates the implementation of an Online Orientation module for students new to the University of the South Pacific. Many incoming students face difficulties because of the sudden change in the eduscape, the transition from secondary schools to higher education institutions made more difficult because of the mutually exclusive lifestyles and expectations. The lower pass rates in first year courses is especially noticeable for cohorts such as distance students, late registrants, and students based in peripheral campuses and centres. This ICT enabled tool is designed to address the new students’ anxieties and fears, and ease the adaptation to higher education. The module also allows students to understand the dynamic environment, be informed about the academic and social issues and also have the ownership of the University. Based on the findings, the paper provides recommendations on the design, development and implementation of the module

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