Pasifika learners comprise a significant number of students in the New Zealand education system. In terms of educational performance, Pasifika learners generally have lower success rates and academic achievements than other student groups at both secondary and tertiary levels. The aim of this paper was to review current governance, investigate…

This study aimed to evaluate and compare approaches to learning by a longitudinal cohort of undergraduate students as they progressed from their first to third years of study in anatomy and physiology. "The Approaches and Study Skills Inventory for Students" (ASSIST) was completed at the beginning and end of their first year of…

Note-taking in lectures is often taken to be the distinguishing characteristic of learning at university. It is typically assumed that this is a commonsensical skill that students either have or will learn through trial and error. The data from a research project in one New Zealand university suggest that taking good notes is not a skill that…

This report comprises summations and brief case descriptions of some of the effective programmes and other support mechanisms that New Zealand Tertiary Learning Advisors (TLAs) provide for students in universities, polytechnics, institutes of technology, and other tertiary institutions. The programmes demonstrate tangible impact on student…

Much research has been done on the effectiveness of Supplemental Instruction programs, (Peer Assisted Study Sessions, PASS, in Australasia). Less research has emerged on on students' reasons for participating in PASS and their perceptions of the effectiveness of the program. In this article, we will report on a small improvement-focused research…

This workbook helps students identify those study practices that are ineffective and suggests ways in which existing study habits may be modified and improved. At the beginning of each of the workbook's seven sections is a set of questions concerning the reader's usual study practices. The second part of each section contains advice about the…

A 6-year study examined the effects of mentoring on university entrance exam results for 62 New Zealand students. Although there was no measurable impact on test results, student and mentor surveys revealed other benefits: increased confidence, enhanced ability to study, and significant contact with influential adults. (Contains 37 references.)…

During a series of electronics lectures, college students used three kinds of notes: (1) duplicates of lecturer's notes; (2) headings, key points, diagram outlines, tables and references with spaces for additional information; and (3) students' own notes taken during lectures. Student preferences for type of notes, and achievement using the three…