TM470 Early Start. eSTEeM Final Report

<p dir="ltr">Students on IT/computing degrees at the Open University (OU) complete a compulsory project at the end of their studies (TM470), yet some students face challenges completing the project due to difficulties with independent work. The prompt for this study was students’ poor performance on TM470 if restarting the module, to potentially improve retention among this cohort. </p><p dir="ltr">The main aim of this report is to highlight student support for development of the study skills required for project development, as studies have shown that early tutor support and feedback can help improve student retention. A TM470 early start pilot was conducted examining viability of an early intervention approach and to determine opportunities for scalability. Candidates were identified using an inclusive selection mechanism that considered: multiple prior registrations, breaks in study, and requiring just TM470 to complete their degree. </p><p dir="ltr">Initial feedback was gathered via interview with tutors who engaged in the project, regarding their support for students facing difficulties during their project’s early phases. In the following two years the research was extended to also gather student feedback, via interviews, providing greater insight into the effectiveness of the early start activities. Further comparisons were made of pass rates for those on the programme with those who were identified as potential candidates but either declined the opportunity or were not offered a place due to number limitations. By evaluating this final year module in the School of Computing and Communications it is hoped this will inform others in helping students achieve their degree. </p>