Enhancing transitions into civil engineering (EnTICE)

The HEA-funded EnTICE project at the University of Strathclyde sought to identify and respond to the factors affecting transitions of two target groups who are currently underrepresented in Civil and Environmental Engineering at the undergraduate level: women and students from deprived communities. To maximise the study’s impact, student participation was essential. Primary data from current and future undergraduates was collected via focus groups, questionnaires, teaching observations, recruitment data, and progression data. Pre-University educational pathways and attainments were mapped in relation to current first and second year curricula. Analyses identified that students from the two underrepresented groups were performing as well as, and in some cases better than their peers. Women and students from deprived areas tended to view existing teaching and support provision more favourably than other students, but also identified key areas where additional support would be helpful. These results were particularly helpful as the Department recently dropped Higher Physics from its entry requirements to encourage more mobility into engineering. This poster presents key data from the EnTICE project and outlines the tailored support package developed to support retention and attainment.