Transitions to HE: CBL for non-traditional students

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to describe the development of contextual based learning resources appropriate to Science Foundation students at the University of Huddersfield. In developing new resources the authors consulted with key stakeholders in the science community. A world class glass manufacturer and an industrially focused research and development unit based in the University of Huddersfield provided input into how industry based scenarios could be developed for use in the curriculum. Teachers from one of the country’s leading sixth form colleges provided examples of effective context based learning in an FE environment. This paper charts how an effective teaching and learning strategy has been tailored for use with Science Foundation students. It provides key
examples of how context based learning (CBL) has been adapted for use with students of mixed abilities and backgrounds. The paper also highlights some of the problems encountered in developing appropriate resources and presents initial findings of the impact on students.