As Australian higher education institutions begin second semester and the new academic year fast approaches elsewhere, the attention of educators is firmly on the common goal of improving learning and teaching in higher education for a positive impact on students today and into the future.
This edition of Higher Education Update explores a number of different areas of work in which ACER research is contributing to this goal. Articles span the exploration of work integrated learning in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) disciplines; university completion for disadvantaged students; improving our understanding of the engineering workforce and barriers to participation; and the satisfaction of General Practice registrars in training.
Features
A clearer picture: Equity in higher education
While Australia’s expanding higher education system offers disadvantaged students increasing opportunities to enter university, the question is whether increased access is matched by completions. New research is seeking answers.
Developing work-ready graduates
ACER is conducting a detailed survey of the work integrated learning landscape in Australian university science and ICT faculties.
Improving engineering work and study
Daniel Edwards and Jacob Pearce discuss a study that explores the perceptions of the engineering workforce, including engineering education and barriers to participation and career advancement.
In other news
GPs rate postgraduate training experiences
Postgraduate doctors around Australia have been asked about their satisfaction with the quality of their training, training providers and with their career progression.
STEM growth: Getting students interested in the sciences
Research suggests real-world problem solving and game-based learning can encourage participation and learning in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, as Deirdre Jackson reports.
The Scan is produced by Inter Mediate, a Melbourne based public policy consulting practice, with a focus on education and training issues, particularly higher education. The Scan reviews topical issues in the tertiary education sector and places them in a broader context.
