Investigating factors that influence success of Pacific students in first-year health sciences at university in New Zealand.

AIMS

Pacific peoples in New Zealand are a migrant population and suffer disproportionately from poor education outcomes compared to the total population. The purpose of this study was to understand factors that influence academic achievement of Pacific students studying health sciences at the University of Otago.

METHODS

Pacific students enrolled in health sciences first year (HSFY) in 2010 were invited to complete a questionnaire on their experiences and adjustment to university. It sought information on university preparedness and "engagement factors". Academic results were obtained.

RESULTS

90% of eligible Pacific students completed the questionnaire. Most students scored their experiences at university highly. Following first semester exams, 60% passed all papers and 40% failed one or more papers. Of those who failed a paper, 50% felt they had developed good study skills. One-third would memorise facts without fully understanding them. Fourteen (23%) HSFY students were successful in getting into a health professional course after end-of-year exams.

CONCLUSIONS

Factors influencing academic outcomes of Pacific students at first year of study at University are complex. Further research focussing on effective roles universities can play in the provision of support, and the influence of preparedness prior to entering university is required.