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Abstract

The need for enhancing the student experience in tertiary education has been widely documented. It is generally agreed that students need to be more engaged with their own learning to achieve this. This paper takes an applied approach and examines some of the ‘academic instruments’ that are used in third level institutions that impact directly on the student experience and consequently their levels of engagement. For the purpose of this study, ‘academic instruments’ are examined under the following headings: Teamwork, Learning Management System, and Self-Directed Study. Adopting a qualitative approach, the research explored these issues with a representative sample of students from one department in a third level college in Ireland. The findings illustrate that student-centred approaches are key to engaging students and enhancing the overall quality of their college experience. Resulting from the empirical research are a number of interventions that when actioned, could result in a more motivated and engaged student population and consequently have the potential to improve student learning and the overall student experience. The changing needs of a diverse student population and their interaction with the learning environment must be understood fully to inform strategic decision making.

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