The PGT Student Experience Dan Hooper

Who am I? Daniel Hooper Exeter Graduate – BA Politics 1 st Class MA Public Administration and Public Policy Army Scholar Why did I choose to stay in Exeter for PG study?

What happens when we arrive? Our vision is to be a leading international university, recognised for the high quality of our research and the distinctive student experience we offer. [University of Exeter Mission Statement] Is the University’s 1 st impression good enough – both academically and pastorally. Does there need to be a joint team consensus? What does the University currently offer? Is there too much of a focus on undergraduate provision?

A steep learning curve? There is a vital need to ensure students are properly trained to complete the course. Students’ Comments: No significant support Those who had studied in Exeter at UG found it easier to cope with the demands. Was I meant to have a social life? [Msc Financial Accounting International Student]

Assessment and Feedback Assessment: Students claimed assessment was more but easier. Example: Posters, Book reviews, presentations. - worthwhile? Feedback: Positive – Supported by the PGT Survey Approachable staff with dedicated office hours. However: Feedback on BART sheets were found not to be helpful. Effective initial feedback saves time in following this up.

What more can be done? recommendations from students: Where is the space for postgraduates? [MA Film Studies student] More support in assessment and feedback Too much emphasis on workload and professional qualifications - More events - More University : PGU collaboration

What more can be done? Employability: - Ensuring students understand the transferable skills their PG study gives them. i.e. Archaeology is not just about digging holes! Internship/employability advice – using departmental contacts. The Taught Postgraduate Experience (Chris Park): - The least positive were from students studying history and philosophy (-10%), European languages (-11%), linguistics and classics (-13%), and creative arts (-14%) – the social sciences.

Our metropolitan €tho$ International student perspectives and support 2008 Times Higher Education Awards: Exeter was short-listed for outstanding support for international students. Strengths: International Students Guide Improvements in cultural appreciation i.e. Chinese new year. Weaknesses: Lack of international student activities. i.e. International Students’ Squash is not engaging. Lack of awareness of University/Guild activities. Possibility to explore the diversity within the university.

Academia vs. the student experience Engage the mind, Touch the heart, Feed the soul [Publicity notice, Edinburgh International Festival 2005] Academia Reasons for Satisfaction 34% mentioned good academic staff and a high standard of teaching 31% mentioned the approachability of academic staff and access to relevant support Other positive factors mentioned by students include: Appropriate course content and structure; Access to and availability to good quality study materials Lecturers/guest lecturers with industrial and business experience. Could the university benchmark on the university experience with other universities?

Academia vs. the student experience The Student Experience Bristol: Careers Advisory Unit Alumni Network Disability resources Student Counselling Service Student Health Centre Chaplaincy Nightline SU PGU Exeter: Do you notice any differences?! What is needed?...only a push in the right direction.

Students as Agents for Change in Learning and Teaching When? Wednesday 17 June 11-3pm. Where? Queen's LT1 What is it about? Hosted by Education Enhancement and the student Guild, the conference provides an opportunity for students in SSLCs to report on action research that they have undertaken on aspects of learning and teaching in their School. Each project has been identified by the SSLC to be of significance in improving the student experience. For more information or to book on the conference visit: or contact Roos Zandstra

Thank you Any Questions?