Practical skills of new undergraduates: report on research workshops delivered on behalf of the Gatsby Charitable Foundation

The Gatsby Charitable Foundation commissioned four research workshops to explore undergraduate teachers' views on how well new science undergraduates are equipped with practical skills. It is intended to use the results of the workshops to inform the development of science A levels. The workshops form part of a wider review being undertaken by Gatsby which aims to explore whether practical work in school science is fit-for-purpose. The four workshops were held in September 2011 in Manchester, Bristol and London. Forty-five [higher education] HE staff from bioscience, chemistry and physics departments in 25 UK universities participated.

Most of the groups said that the practical skills of their entry level students are a concern. While most felt that the issue was one they could cope with through their undergraduate teaching, it was widely acknowledged that the potential depth of the university-level practical learning was compromised. Many participants said that they assume their new undergraduates will come in with limited or no practical skills. Workshop participants described a variety of ways in which universities are taking action to enhance students' practical skills. These included: (1) focusing on skills development in first year practical courses; (2) changes to course structures including pre-labs and project work; (3) training for teachers and demonstrators; (4) assessment methods during practical classes; and (5) outreach and links with schools.

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