Learning in transition: Culture to culture

Abstract

This paper documents a study concerning students’ transition from their initial study settings to the Curtin University (CU) learning culture of practice. The principal aim of this research was to better understand students’ learning needs as they move from one learning culture to the next with a view to optimising study experiences and retention, particularly for students at risk. Data from student writing tasks and interviews were analysed, along with common student errors and difficulties emergent from student assignments. Findings were then aligned with the services and resources provided to students by the Communication Skills Centre which forms part of the Curtin Business School (CBS). Findings reported here have been used to improve understanding of students’ learning needs and to assist in fine-tuning student support practices delivered by the CSC at CU.