FACTORS INFLUENCING UNIT SELECTION OF SECOND-YEAR BIOMEDICINE UNITS

Abstract

This study explored factors that influence student decision making in relation to unit selection, including factors that impact upon unit selection, identification of key times of the year at which planning decisions are made and to elucidate the major sources of information that students use to make course planning decisions. Second-year students undertaking units offered by the Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute (BDI) were surveyed (n=140). ‘Interest in the topics covered’ was ranked as the greatest influence for participants in their selection of units, followed by ‘I believe I can get good marks’ for Bachelor of Biomedical Science students and ‘Required for major’ for Bachelor of Science/other students. Students reported an increasing tendency to seek out information regarding prospective units from the period between mid-semester 1, peaking at the commencement of the re-enrolment period occurring mid semester 2. Online unit handbook entries were reported as the most frequently utilised source of information about prospective units, followed by information from peers who have completed the unit. ‘Face to face’ events providing unit information did not appear to be well-utilised by students. The outcomes of this study will be used to better support students in making informed course planning decisions.