title: Evaluating the effectiveness of a university health sciences experience program for regional Year 10 students.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  The main aim of this pilot program was to raise secondary students' awareness of university studies and careers in the health sciences through a three-day program. Further aims of the program were to increase the participants' knowledge of health issues through group activities, and provide an opportunity to interact with university staff and health professionals.
  
  
  METHODS
  The participants were surveyed at the conclusion of the program using an online questionnaire (30 items) consisting of both open and closed questions.
  
  
  METHODS
  The program and evaluation were carried out at a regional campus of a metropolitan-based university during the mid-year vacation.
  
  
  METHODS
  Fourteen Year 10 students (11 female, 3 male; 5 from government schools, 9 from a non-government school) from a regional city completed the evaluation.
  
  
  METHODS
  Satisfaction with the program, increased awareness of pathways into university, and changes in attitude about university as a career option.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The evaluation revealed that the participants had had a pleasant learning experience, which had led them to feel positive about university studies in general and as an option for themselves. They made useful suggestions for improvements.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The evaluation of the effectiveness of the program showed that it had achieved its objectives. It also provided the program organisers with insights regarding timing and activities, which will be useful in improving future programs targeting secondary students.
authors.affiliation: Centre for Regional Engagement, University of South Australia, Whyalla Norrie, SA, Australia. joy.penman@unisa.edu.au
authors.forename: Joy
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Penman
authors.forename: Bronwyn
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Ellis
authors.forename: Frances
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: White
authors.forename: Gary
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Misan
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D001290:Attitude; D001315:Australia; D002321:Career Choice; D005260:Female; D006281:Health Occupations; D006280:Health Workforce; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010560:Personnel Selection; D010865:Pilot Projects; D015397:Program Evaluation; D013334:Students