The document discusses challenges students face when transitioning to new educational programs and reasons why some students may leave their programs. It notes that younger students and those from non-professional backgrounds are more likely to leave, while quality of teaching, assessment, and social integration can also impact retention. The document then applies this research to the specific Postgraduate Diploma in Law program at the University of Brighton, highlighting steps taken to support students and reduce attrition, such as formative assessment, induction activities, and meeting student needs and expectations.

1. The challenges of transition LILAC conference 2009 Alison Bone

2. Introduction Should I stay or should I go? First Year Experience (FYE) research and literature is generic US law school retention rates vary widely HESA data in the UK difficult to interpret as non-retention figures not available on subject basis – unsurprisingly Oxbridge do best and ‘old’ better than ‘new’ Unis.

3. Why do students leave? Survey by Yorke and Longden Young choose less well than older students Young more likely to be unhappy with aspects of environment (both work and living) Older tend to be more critical of their ‘experience’ Older have more problems with finance, demands of PT study and needs of dependents Students from managerial/professional backgrounds less likely to have financial difficulties

4. Applying research to a real course CPE at Brighton is currently only PG diploma in UK and runs in PT mode Students make an informed choice: open evenings, e-mail discussions, one-to-one interviews. Most who are made offers accept – but some do not enrol (usually work/financial reasons)

5. Quality of teaching and assessment Highlighted by Yorke and Longden as a key factor – especially with mature students. Our CPE students do not face school/uni transition issues – resources are available for dealing with this eg Wallace Small is beautiful! (At Brighton usually around 15) Formative assessment as early as possible

6. Legal System, Method and Skills First module on the Brighton PGDip Law course Used to be assessed by five different pieces of work (all for one 10 credit level 3 module) Now summatively assessed by one MCT but other work done during course

7. Social integration Social isolation can be a problem (Yorke 2008) Induction activities are crucial ( STAR project ) This is not really an issue on Brighton CPE

8. Resources and expectations Most students are happy but some make facilities such as the library their top priority…..(NSS and Leeds Met Law School) Course management issues can be a reason for leaving (eg cancellation of classes, special needs not met)