Use of Virtual Networking to Facilitate Transition to Tertiary Education

Research indicates that social and academic integration are important elements in the student experience in the transition to University. There is evidence that supports improved outcomes in respect of learning and retention where there is enhanced contact with students beyond that experienced in the immediate formal academic environment. In recent years society has been increasingly exposed to a plethora of new communication opportunities with social networking sites often the vehicle of choice. This paper details the experience and subsequent analysis of student responses to their interaction with a dedicated Virtual Induction and Social Networking Site. This was created by the Centre for Excellence in Teaching and Learning (CETL) at the University of Ulster in collaboration with the Faculty of Art, Design and the Built Environment. A literature supported rationale is offered for its introduction. Direct student feedback was sought mid semester via a detailed questionnaire in order to analyse student perceptions of the site and its usefulness. The site was designed to address a number of areas indicated in published works as issues relating to prospective students. A synopsis of the feedback and detailed discussion is offered in the body of the paper. Analysis of the data reflects broad access across the various elements of the site suggesting good levels of participation with students being satisfied or very satisfied. There are also some interesting and perhaps surprising responses by the student cohorts indicating the usefulness of the site and how it could be enhanced. A number of rankings are provided indicating the relative importance to the student of each aspect of the site’s functionality at inception and mid semester. These reflect changing student priorities throughout the transition period. Although a longitudinal study, the findings detailed in this paper suggest the site was successful in promoting student engagement.