Evaluating current practice and formulating retention strategies for year 1 Economics

An Economics Network funded project, 2008-9

Institution: Coventry University
Project leader: Mike Walsh

Economic evidence suggests that, on average, there are considerable financial benefits to an individual student over their lifetime through completing a degree. This fact, together with the social benefits, is often emphasised during recruitment events for in an effort to attract students to undertake an economics degree in an increasingly competitive market. However, once students are recruited perhaps insufficient attention is directed towards retaining them and improving their experience at university. Given that drop-out rates are highest in year one of a degree this project aims to evaluate current practice on year one economics at Coventry University, and identify areas for improvement.