Smarthinking poster_Library_final
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Smarthinking is an online tutoring service available to USQ students 24/7 that provides feedback on academic writing, mathematics support, and assistance for students from non-English speaking backgrounds. A study found that students who used Smarthinking more frequently for academic writing skills showed improved progression rates. The number of Smarthinking sessions and hours used by USQ students has increased each semester since 2014. Embedding Smarthinking in courses can further enhance student progression rates.
Smarthinking poster_Library_final
- 1. CRICOSQLD00244BNSW02225MTEQSA:PRF12081 Smarthinking is a 24/7 online learning service, hosted by Pearson (USA), providing free, on- demand, quick turnaround academic learning advice to all current USQ students. It is one of a suite of Learning Assistance Programs (LAP) offered by USQ’s Student Learning and Development section of the Library Services. • Students access service from Study Desk • Detailed, personalised feedback on academic writing, including referencing • Specialised help for students from non-English speaking backgrounds is available • Personalised support for mathematics Smarthinking: Supporting Students Academically, All the Time Elizabeth McCarthy, Anita Frederiks, Megan Kek, Lindy Kimmins, Aruna Devi, Bronwen Dickson, Douglas Eacersall, Mark Emmerson and Eddie Thangavelu Student Learning & Development, Library Services Scholarly Information & Learning Services, Academic Services Division Key Finding Students who engaged more frequently with the Smarthinking service for academic writing skills responded with measurably improved progression rates at USQ. Impact on Student Progression As part of a bigger study (Kek et al, forthcoming), the efficacy of Smarthinking on student progression was investigated. The team investigated the correlations b e t w e e n s t u d e n t c h a ra c t e r i s t i c s a n d university factors such as study load, gender, residency status, study mode and time spent engaging with Smarthinking on student progression (outcome measured). The hierarchical regression findings showed a definitive impact on student retention. References: Kek, M. Y. C. A., Padro, F., Kimmins, L., Frederiks, A., & Ayriss, P. (Forthcoming). Exploring the contributions of co-curricular learning programs on student success: The case with a learning advising program. Higher Education Research and Development. Since 2014: •the number of Smarthinking sessions logged by USQ students during Semester 1 has consecutively increased by 10%. •the total number of hours that students have spent using Smarthinking has shown a steady increase. B y e m b e d d i n g S m a r t h i n k i n g a s a complement to a suite of learning activities in a course, the progression rates for students can be further enhanced. Enabling Student Success Scholarly Information & Learning Services builds upon a holistic and integrated service model to provide quality learning support initiatives. This support applies to both staff and students. Together, we work with you to maximise student success at USQ and beyond. Please get in touch with us!