Investigating student success factors in a top-quality Ghanaian university: A focus on Ashesi University
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2019-04
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Abstract
This study aimed to collate and analyze the views of students and graduates of Ashesi
University, a top African university, on the relevant factors which significantly
influence their academic performance. The research was motivated by the desire of
some university officials to identify the specific aspects of Ashesi’s “modified liberal
arts model” which most significantly impact students’ academic performance and
enable them to do so well in the job market. The questions this study sought to answer
were: Which factors significantly impact the academic performance of Ashesi
students and how do students rate the factors affecting their academic performance?
The research employed a sequential, transformative mixed methods strategy where
both qualitative (interviews) and quantitative data collection techniques
(questionnaires) were used. The sample comprised of 132 current Ashesi University
students and alumni.
The results show that significant factors affecting student performance include the
ability to think critically, adequate sleep, having a scholarship, proper time
management, sitting at or near the front of the lecture hall and student ownership of a
laptop. Respondents also identified lecturer support, Ashesi learning resources such as
access to an internet connection, student-peer support learning as well as the
spirituality of the individual student as significant to their performance.
This study recommends improvement in the provision of learning resources such as a
stable, all day, all week, round the clock internet connection. This study also suggests
that lecturers should continue being actively engaged in students’ performance
beyond the classroom by providing needed advice and support.
Description
Undergraduate thesis submitted to the Department of Business Administration, Ashesi University, in partial fulfillment of Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration, April 2019
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Keywords
Ashesi University, academic performance, liberal arts, employable skills, teamwork