A participative evaluation model to refine academic support for first year Indigenous higher education students

Abstract

This paper presents an evaluative approach designed to provide a cycle of continuous improvement to retain Indigenous students during their first year of higher education. The evaluation model operates in conjunction with a student academic enrichment program that is premised on valuing and respecting each student's background and life experience whilst building capability for learning success. Data collected will be used for continual improvement of a newly developed innovative academic enrichment program that caters to the needs of Indigenous students. The defining mechanisms of the model for measuring the first year experience are particularly meaningful for the Australian Centre For Indigenous Knowledges and Education as it moves into its inaugural year of operation in 2012. This preeminent time requires a flexible model to receive timely feedback in a reflexive environment where students guide the process as they continue their journey of accumulating knowledge and leave behind their contribution in shaping the landscape for future first year Indigenous students.

Teaching and learning

“…The nature of the disruption to university education in the two situations described above is inherently different. There is an extensive academic literature that highlights the difficulties indigenous groups face when navigating university education, the high failure or drop-out rates they experience and their under-representation in the accounting profession (Gallhofer et al , 1999; Rkein and Norris, 2012; Rossingh and Dunbar, 2012; Dang et al , 2016). South Africa is no different.…”

Integrated systematic review on educational strategies that promote academic success and resilience in undergraduate indigenous students

“…Globally, there is little question that education can be transformative towards 'closing the gap' agenda and improving the socio-economic position of Indigenous peoples (Hossain, Gorman, Williams-Mozely, & Garvey, 2008;Pechenkina, Kowal, & Paradies, 2011;Rossingh & Dunbar, 2012). The negative impact of colonisation on the health and wellbeing of Indigenous peoples around the world is indisputable.…”