Navigating the Leap: Understanding First-Year Students’ Journey into Higher Education.

Abstract

​This study aims to investigate the transition experiences of first-year computing students, focusing on factors that may inhibit their engagement and contribute to issues around retention and ultimately lead to non-progression. By examining the experiences of both traditional and non-traditional students from diverse backgrounds, this research seeks to understand the challenges faced by students in navigating higher education. A qualitative descriptive design was adopted. Insight into students’ experience were sought through focus group sessions with students midway through their first semester of their first year of studies. Data was analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Four themes emerged; Early student engagement and peer dynamics, Maths struggles and finding support, Impact of Administrative and In-Class Communication, and Engagement and Interaction in the Learning Environment. The study highlights the importance of addressing educational inequality and implementing appropriate structures and supports to ensure successful student transitions and outcomes.​