In short
How can secondary school students make better informed study choices for higher education? This research investigates the use of online self-assessment feedback through the Columbus tool. By enhancing feedback design and school-based guidance, the project empowers schools and students to improve the study choice process.
Need and relevance
Many students decide on a field of study without sufficient support, which often leads to mismatches, delays or dropout in higher education. While the Columbus tool already provides feedback, little is known about how students engage with it and how schools can support this. This project addresses that gap by focusing on knowledge creation that helps improve educational outcomes and reduce wasted time, effort and resources.
From approach to impact
The research follows a mixed-method approach:
advanced analysis of the Columbus longitudinal database
lab and field experiments on feedback design
school interventions targeting career guidance, values and goals
The role of self-efficacy, self-regulation, and support from parents and peers is also explored. Findings will result in evidence-based guidelines for effective feedback and study guidance practices. The project aims to foster more informed study choices, better engagement, and improved academic success in the transition to higher education.
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