How Can the Induction Programme be Influenced and Improved?

Abstract

The nature and worth of the Induction programme at an institution of higher education merited further investigation. Action research followed to establish continuation and the nature thereof. Methodology involved the gathering of qualitative and quantitative data. Four lenses provided an evaluation tool. The sample comprised of 67 inductees from various cycles, a peer, a consultant from a sister institution and seven voluntary presenters. Data collection tools consisted of a survey to measure satisfaction and quality, interviews, cross-institutional comparison, self evaluation and a literature review. Content analysis of the open responses followed. Essentially the programme was found to be very valuable, despite the high intensity and low spread. It needed to have greater spread, lower intensity and be linked to the Probation Policy to be taken more seriously. It was concluded that the policy needed to be reviewed. Recommendations were made to senior officers, one being that Induction become a process over a year. (153 words)

DOI: 10.5901/mjss.2014.v5n11p77