Search Results

Re-engaging young adults who have 'dropped out' of school is an important and challenging task for educators. The purpose of this study was to explore the teaching practices that encourage young people to re-engage in further learning. Through interviews with teachers and students, the study identified five major interrelated teaching strategies that were effective in re-engaging young adults in education. These strategies were: strong concern for student welfare; positive teacher-student relationships; relevant course content; a mastery-based approach to learning; and an overarching goal of building students' confidence in their ability, and more generally, in themselves. Together, these strategies address the behavioural, emotional and cognitive components of student engagement.

Published abstract reprinted by permission of the copyright owner. Show less

In this paper, young people enrolled in foundation skills courses compare their experiences at [Technical and Further Education] TAFE with their experiences at school. Interviews were conducted with 30 early school leavers who were enrolled in foundation skills courses at two TAFE campuses. The students spoke with passion about their often-negative experiences of school and, in contrast, their positive experiences at TAFE. They highlighted the greater flexibility and freedom, the respectful relationships with teachers and peers, and the opportunities for academic achievement at TAFE. The research demonstrates the important role that foundation courses at TAFE can play in re-engaging young people with education and learning.

Published abstract reprinted by permission of the copyright owner. Show less