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Workload, study methods, and motivation of students within a BVSc program
Tim J Parkinson1, Marg Gilling, Gordon T Suddaby
1Farm Animal Reproduction and Health, Institute of Veterinary, Animal and Biomedical Sciences, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand. t.j.parkinson@massey.ac.nz
Journal of Veterinary Medical Education
|July 20, 2006
Summary
Student study habits in veterinary programs reveal that motivation is linked to relevance and engagement, while high workloads and assessments negatively impact learning. Understanding these factors is key for improving veterinary education.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Education
- Student Learning Strategies
- Higher Education Pedagogy
Background:
- Understanding student experiences in demanding veterinary science programs is crucial.
- Previous research has not fully explored the interplay of workload, study methods, and motivation in BVSc programs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the study workloads, methods, and motivation of students across a five-year Bachelor of Veterinary Science (BVSc) program.
- To identify factors influencing student study time allocation and learning strategy choices.
Main Methods:
- Utilized questionnaires and focus groups to gather data from BVSc students over an academic year.
- Students self-reported out-of-class study time, study methods, time prioritization, and leisure activity allocation.
Main Results:
- Mean out-of-class study time varied from 19 to 28 hours per week across years.
- Study time and methods were influenced by subject interest, perceived demands, and assessment pressures.
- Student motivation was highest for relevant, engaging subjects and lowest for high workloads or perceived irrelevance.
Conclusions:
- Workload and assessment demands are perceived by students as antagonistic to good learning practices.
- A disconnect exists between student perceptions and faculty values regarding critical thinking development in BVSc programs.
- Educational strategies should address student motivation drivers and mitigate the negative impacts of workload and assessment.