Cambridge University has just announced that it’s starting
an online learning programme to help 6th form students with A-level
Physics to prepare them for their University entry (Details Here). The 5 year project is
funded by a £7 million grant from the Department of Education. My department
has been worried for several years by the limited knowledge of students
entering the University and in particular, their ability to solve complex
problems independently rather than just regurgitate lots of facts. Biological science departments run
catch up lectures in mathematics to help students cope with the rigours of
academic life. It’s a poor indictment of the education system that it is
necessary for Universities to bring A-level students up to the appropriate
standard for higher education. A “one fits all” A-level exam cannot adequately
test the full range of abilities of all the students and push the more capable
students to achieve their full potential.
