Teaching Methods and the Transition from A Level to

University for History Students

Rachel Hammersley (History)

Sara Bird (Library)

Our Aims Open up conversations between teachers and

university staff through providing opportunities for observation and professional discussion.

Gather A level and first year undergraduate opinions on changes in teaching and learning between school and university.

Gather A level and first year undergraduate opinions on transition between school and university.

Gain a more in depth understanding around the issue of transition and the impact this has on our students.

Provide the opportunity for A level students to visit the University.

What we did Worked with Kenton and Churchill Community

College History departments (both WP) Organised visit for A level students to University:

History lecture, seminar and Special Collections Organised visit for A level students to University:

Library – research skills A level students completed pre-visit

questionnaires and captured thoughts at end of visit to university.

Opportunity for University staff to observe A level teaching

Seminar to discuss teaching and learning and transition

Results: Student Questionnaires

Teacher talking 30-100%Class discussion 0-75%Group work 0-70%Directed reading 0-100%Undirected reading 0-82%

Results: Student Visit

“This has changed my idea, I see university as more welcoming and relaxed.”

Where next? Seminar on 20 December where this will

be discussed.

Lots learnt already and do want to take this forward. Repeat of similar days Closer links with schools Continued working between Library and

History Dedicated opportunity to research, develop

and talk to teachers about transition and easing problems

Making first year lectures more accessible.