Experiencing studies at the University of Joensuu

Modelling a student cohort's satisfaction, study achievements and dropping out
Rautopuro, Juhani; Väisänen, Pertti
952-5401-06-5; 1458-1094
Finnish Educational Research Association / Suomen kasvatustieteellinen seura
Research in educational sciences / Kasvatusalan tutkimuksia (7)
2001

The context of this book is the emerging paradox between the growing student enrolment rates and the demands for a better quality of academic work and broadening duties of university faculties with decreasing funds. This dilemma is shared by most Western countries.

In an attempt to gain accurate knowledge of how students live through their academic education, a longitudinal study was carried out at the University of Joensuu during 1995-1998. The study surveyed whole student cohort of 1995 (N = 916). The research aimed at answering the questions:

How do the students experience the quality of teaching and tutoring?
- are there any changes during the studies?
- are there any differences between faculties?
Who are the drop-outs?
- what are the reasons and predictors for the drop-out phenomenon?
What are the outcomes of learning?
- are the students satisfied with their studies?
- how to predict study achievements?
How can we improve university teaching?

The results and the conclusions drawn from the study may be transferable also to other institutions of higher education in Finland and outside. This book will be stimulating reading for teachers, study advisers, administrators, researchers and those involved in developing higher education.