Investigating a Possible Gap Between Students’ Expectations and Perceptions: The Case of a Pre-Entry Science Program

Abstract

This study investigated a gap that may have existed between students' expectations and perceptions of the 2007 Pre-Entry Science Program (PESP) cohort at the National University of Lesotho and factors that might have influenced these expectations and perceptions. Questionnaires and semi-structured interviews were used for data collection and administered to students participating in PESP. The gaps between expectations and perceptions that existed were measured using Cohen′s effect size. A large effect size was found for the ability of presenters to give students a good grasp of concepts within the subject area. Factors that seem to have influenced the students′ expectations and perceptions were identified as students′ background knowledge, previous experience, informal communication, and individual needs. Suggestions made to narrow the gap include knowing students′ expectations at the beginning of the program and then making a conscious effort to meet them.

Gender in STEM Education: an Exploratory Study of Student Perceptions of Math and Science Instructors in the United Arab Emirates

“…All students in the first year preparatory courses were United Arab Emirates nationals taking remedial courses in English and math to obtain the minimum entrance criteria for matriculation as freshmen. Such bridging programs are often instituted in universities to help students gain the knowledge and expertise required to be successful in their higher education courses (Moru, Persens & Breiteig, 2010). Expatriate students represented a variety of nationalities, including Syrian, Jordanian, Pakistani, Indian, and American.…”