Bachelor of Nursing program enrolment sessions for newly arrived international students

Bachelor of Nursing program enrolment sessions for newly arrived international students

The transition of International students to tertiary study is associated with high levels of anxiety as students negotiate both Australian and University cultures. Academic and administrative staff noted that many new international nursing students were confused about their enrolment patterns and/or the timetabling of classes. This resulted in poor attendance in tutorial and laboratory classes early in the semester and the missing of essential information. Uncertainty about electronic systems, missing orientation sessions, late arrival on campus, and not knowing who to contact for the specific information contributed. In response the Department of Nursing and Midwifery academic staff, the International Office and Faculty of Sciences administration staff developed and trialed supportive Bachelor of Nursing Enrollment Classes for commencing International students in Semester 1, 2009. Students were met at the International office by Academic staff at pre advertised times in the two weeks prior to, and the two weeks after the commencement of the semester. The students were escorted to a computer classroom where they were individually taught and assisted to enroll in their courses. Feedback has confirmed that this resulted in reduced student anxiety and confusion. Administrative staff also noted a considerably reduced volume of individual student enquires. Academic staff reported that International nursing students who participated in these classes were attending and engaged in courses from the commencement of semester and results in early assessment items were much improved on previous semesters. Similar orientation sessions will be conducted in future semesters.

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