SIMON, an online study (re)orientation tool: (interaction) effects of and between background characteristics, (non-)cognitive factors and/or study interests on study achievement in Flemish higher education.
Study orientation towards higher education is a challenging process for students. Prior research points out that first year study success, which means passing all courses, in higher education is alarmingly low (i.e., less
than 40%). In order to achieve an improvement in the success rate of first year students, Ghent University constructed an online (re)orientation tool, called SIMON (Study capacities and Interest MONitor). This instrument collects diverse data with regard to cognitive skills, non-cognitive factors and study interests. Additionally, the data allows to be matched with background characteristics and with the obtained study results of students in their specific chosen study programs. The past years, a vast amount of data has been gathered, which creates a lot of research opportunities. There are still many possible (interaction) effects of and between background characteristics, cognitive skills, non-cognitive predictors and/or study interests on study achievement in Flemish higher education, which will be explored in this PhD. Next to the potential societal impact, the results can also add value to theory and practice.
