Post on 30-Jul-2020
YOPALA Summer Term 2013
YOPALA Results of the first survey round, Summer Term 2013
Aalto University Joanna Gajowniczek Zan Iliesci Hannah Leichsenring
YOPALA report | Aalto University | July 2013
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Content 1 Preliminary remarks ....................................................................................................... 4
2 Data presentation ........................................................................................................... 4
2.1 Comparison with data from QUEST ........................................................................ 4
2.2 Comparison with data from MEMO .......................................................................... 5
2.3 Comparison over time ............................................................................................. 5
3 Information about the survey process. Participation rate ................................................ 5
4 Methodological framework .............................................................................................. 7
5 YOPALA results Summer Term 2013 ............................................................................13
5.1 Background information on the students ................................................................13
5.1.1 Routes to university .........................................................................................13
5.1.2 Financing ........................................................................................................14
5.1.3 Age .................................................................................................................14
5.1.4 Gender ............................................................................................................15
5.1.5 Spatial distance to university ...........................................................................15
5.1.6 Family background ..........................................................................................15
5.1.7 Language ........................................................................................................15
5.1.8 Choice of study ...............................................................................................16
5.1.9 Previous vocational education .........................................................................17
5.2 Background per fields of study ...............................................................................18
5.2.1 Participants per fields of study .........................................................................18
5.2.2 Routes to university per fields of study ............................................................19
5.2.3 Financing ........................................................................................................20
5.2.4 Age .................................................................................................................21
5.2.5 Gender ............................................................................................................22
5.2.6 Spatial distance to university ...........................................................................22
5.2.7 Family background ..........................................................................................23
5.2.8 Language ........................................................................................................23
5.2.9 Choice of study ...............................................................................................24
5.2.10 Performance during the first years of studying ................................................25
5.3 Student life outside university .................................................................................26
5.3.1 Job and relation of the job to the field of study ................................................26
5.3.2 Extracurricular activities ..................................................................................26
5.3.3 Satisfaction generally ......................................................................................27
5.3.4 Supporting factors ...........................................................................................28
5.4 Student experience at university.............................................................................29
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5.4.1 Specifics of the programme .............................................................................29
5.4.2 Performance in university ................................................................................30
5.4.3 Time management ..........................................................................................30
5.4.4 University offers (services) ..............................................................................32
5.4.5 Team work ......................................................................................................36
5.4.6 Experience abroad ..........................................................................................38
5.4.7 Information and support ..................................................................................40
5.4.8 Participation ....................................................................................................41
6 Adaptation .....................................................................................................................43
6.1 YOPALA scores .....................................................................................................43
6.1.1 YOPALA scores for UNIFI in comparison with QUEST and MEMO .................44
6.2 Adaptation per fields of study .................................................................................45
6.3 Scores in comparison .............................................................................................46
6.3.1 YOPALA scores ..............................................................................................46
6.3.2 YOPALA average scores ................................................................................46
6.3.3 YOPALA average scores for Aalto University ..................................................47
YOPALA report | Aalto University | July 2013
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1 Preliminary remarks
The report reflects the results of the first YOPALA survey for the Aalto University, conducted in
May 2013. It presents the data in comparison with the other participating Finnish universities, as
well as with German and other international universities. Additionally, a comparison between
students with high and low QUEST values, for all participating Finnish universities, is attached
to the report. This approach follows the idea, that the YOPALA survey does not aim to reflect
the performance of students, but the performance of the university, with regards to its ability to
support students in being successful in their studies. This university support might need to be
different for different types of students.
2 Data presentation
In this report, the TOTAL (N) value always represents the number of participants who actually
answered the question. Typically, we do not mention missing cases, except in those cases
where we offer the option “I cannot or do not want to answer this question”. Other missing cases
like:
- participants saw the question, but chose not to answer it
- participants did not see the question, because of a filter question answered in a specific
way or
- participants did not see the question, because they already left the survey
are not specifically mentioned. Thus, the data is to be interpreted as “of those who answered
the question, X% said...”.
Most of the tables are colour coded. Low values are marked yellow, high values are marked
green and similar shades of colour mark similar rates per item or question. However, colouring
does not contain a judgement, since low values may, or may not, be beneficial or favourable.
For questions with single answers, the feedback for all items per question is compared by the
colour code. For questions with multiple answers, the colour code comparison is applied per
item.
2.1 Comparison with data from QUEST
QUEST is a German student survey, developed by CHE-Consult to serve as an empirical basis
to improve the quality of studies for a diverse student body. As of today, it includes ca. 29.000
cases from three survey rounds conducted among universities and universities of applied
sciences. For QUEST, feedback rates lay between 1 and 48%, with 12% on average.
Participating universities included:
Brandenburgische Technische Universität Cottbus
Europa-Universität Viadrina Frankfurt/Oder
Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg
Leibniz Universität Hannover
Otto-von-Guericke-Universität Magdeburg
Stiftung Universität Hildesheim
Technische Universität München
Universität Bielefeld
Universität Bremen
Universität Freiburg
Universität Koblenz-Landau
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Universität Konstanz
Universität Regensburg
Universität zu Köln
For the YOPALA survey, several QUEST questions had to be adjusted to the different target
group (i.e. graduates only, instead of all university students) and the Finnish context.
Nonetheless, for some items we are able to present comparison with data from QUEST (taking
into consideration only Master students at universities).
2.2 Comparison with data from MEMO
MEMO is a survey developed by CHE-Consult based on the QUEST approach, specifically to
measure and analyse benefits of student participation in mobility programmes. It has been
implemented among students going abroad for an exchange. For comparison, we draw data
from the following universities:
Freie Universität Berlin, Germany
Leipzig University, Germany
LMU München, Germany
Martin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg, Germany
Università Carlo Cattaneo LIUC, Italy
Università di Bologna, Italy
Università Roma 1 La Sapienza, Italy
Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Spain
Universitat de Barcelona, Spain
Universitat Oberta de Catalunya, Spain
Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Spain
Universität Bielefeld, Germany
Universität der Bundeswehr, Germany
Université de Lausanne, France
Université de Reims Champagne-Ardenne (URCA), France
Université Paris Diderot-Paris 7, France
University of Aalborg, Denmark
University of Bristol, UK
University of Essex, UK
2.3 Comparison over time
In addition, for the successive survey rounds, the report will include comparisons between the
results from consecutive YOPALA rounds.
3 Information about the survey process. Participation rate
All in all, in the YOPALA Summer Term 2013 round, 10 607 logins had been created and sent
to universities for distribution. Three rounds of reminders were possible and most universities
made the most of this opportunity. Consequently, the feedback rate increased from initial 12%
to 25% in the end. At the Aalto University, feedback was 23% (N=259). An analysis, comparing
the answers of students from the first week with those in the third week, was prepared and no
relevant discrepancies were found.
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At the Aalto University, 96% of students chose the Finish (Suomi) version of the survey.
Less than 4% of students selected the Swedish, and only 1 student the English version.
The following graph shows participation in the survey per page, for all participating Finnish
universities. It does not include pages which led to raffles organised by some universities.
Table 1: Participation per page
PAGE NAME DROP OUT PROGRESS UNTIL PAGE
Welcome 219 (7.44%) 2945 (100.00%)
language selection 5 (0.17%) 2726 (92.56%)
Routes to university, specifics 32 (1.09%) 2721 (92.39%)
Fields of study 3 (0.10%) 2689 (91.31%)
Job 10 (0.34%) 2686 (91.21%)
relation to study field 15 (0.51%) 2676 (90.87%)
financing 7 (0.24%) 2661 (90.36%)
activities 6 (0.20%) 2654 (90.12%)
activities at university 4 (0.14%) 2648 (89.92%)
volunteer work 1 (0.03%) 2644 (89.78%)
age 2 (0.07%) 2643 (89.75%)
gender 0 (0.00%) 2641 (89.68%)
spatial distance to university 2 (0.07%) 2641 (89.68%)
family background 1 (0.03%) 2639 (89.61%)
satisfaction generally 3 (0.10%) 2638 (89.58%)
supporting factors 5 (0.17%) 2635 (89.47%)
choice of study 7 (0.24%) 2630 (89.30%)
performance in school 2 (0.07%) 2623 (89.07%)
performance in university 6 (0.20%) 2621 (89.00%)
offers of university 25 (0.85%) 2615 (88.79%)
team work 20 (0.68%) 2590 (87.95%)
time management 6 (0.20%) 2570 (87.27%)
experience abroad 5 (0.17%) 2564 (87.06%)
information and support 6 (0.20%) 2559 (86.89%)
participation 6 (0.20%) 2553 (86.69%)
QUEST 1 12 (0.41%) 2547 (86.49%)
YOPALA report | Aalto University | July 2013
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PAGE NAME DROP OUT PROGRESS UNTIL PAGE
QUEST 2 7 (0.24%) 2535 (86.08%)
QUEST 3 5 (0.17%) 2528 (85.84%)
QUEST 4 7 (0.24%) 2523 (85.67%)
QUEST 5 5 (0.17%) 2516 (85.43%)
QUEST 6 1 (0.03%) 2511 (85.26%)
QUEST 7 4 (0.14%) 2510 (85.23%)
QUEST 8 4 (0.14%) 2506 (85.09%)
QUEST 9 1 (0.03%) 2502 (84.96%)
page before last 7 (0.24%) 2501 (84.92%)
view results 390 (13.24%) 2494 (84.69%)
last page 0 (0.00%) 756 (25.67%)
TOTAL Interrupted* 2189 (74.33%)
TOTAL Finalised 704 (23.90%)
TOTAL Finalised after interruption 52 (1.77%)
*“Interrupted” means that the participant did not reach the “last page” of the survey. Most students did not because they were automatically referred to their university’s raffle page.
4 Methodological framework
The YOPALA survey consists of three kinds of items:
items referring to facts about students (family background, financial situation, study field
etc.),
items referring to opinions (about the university’s offer and aspects of studying, like team
work or internationalisation),
QUEST items referring to student attitudes.
A forth kind of items (university specific questions) will be added in the next round. These might
include items referring to facts, as well as opinions.
The survey follows Vincent Tinto’s (Tinto, 1993) idea of adaptation, as a prerequisite for study
success. While the student adapts to the university, the institutions’ offer, structures and
education ideas should ideally support his/her efforts. However, diversity among students, as
well as the specifics on the side of the institution, create a very specific adaptation situation for
each student. This situation is shaped by three dimensions: student’s individual study-related
diversity, the requirements of the institution and the conditions of studying (see
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Graph 1).
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Graph 1: Mutual adaptation between students and institution
The items referring to facts, opinions and university-specific conditions represent these three
dimensions. At the same time, the QUEST items represent how students act on the basis of
these dimensions, i.e. how well the adaptation situation allows students to react positively
against the challenges of studying.
The distinguishing characteristic of QUEST is that the items are constructed in the form of
psychometric items. 74 items are taken into consideration, each representing a particular
behaviour. The participants of the survey are requested to evaluate themselves against each
behavioural description, on a scale from 0 to 100 percent. As a first step of the analysis, the
psychometric QUEST items are factorised – that is, the items with similar answers are put
together into factors by means of statistical methods. This leads to the establishment of the ten
QUEST-Factors (see
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Graph 2 and Graph 3).
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Graph 2: The ten QUEST factors
The items referring to these factors can be found in the appendix. The higher the figures, the
greater the level of adaption to the requirements and conditions of the scientific university study
programmes. For the German study, we have shown that the QUEST average score correlates
highly with all other performance indicators assessed in the survey.
For the YOPALA survey, the two factors “Identification with the university” and “Fulfilment of
expectations” are of special importance, because they reflect the students’ perspective on the
quality of teaching and learning, as represented by the items which constitute the two factors:
“Identification with the Higher Education Institution “
6 I felt a sense of identification with my school.
13 I liked being a student at my institution.
26 I would recommend my university.
28 I feel I enjoyed a close relationship to my university and my department.
37 I have thought about dropping out of university several times.
43 I considered my professors to be very competent in their respective field. 48 The expectations I had for my study programme at this university have been met.
“Fulfilment of expectations “
1 I was very confident that I am coping well with the requirements of my studies.
15 I expected my studies to be easier.
19 I often had bad luck with my examiners.
20 I prefer to talk about uncontroversial topics with my acquaintances.
22 I could keep up well with the course content.
29 I was attentive when following lectures and seminars.
45 I felt overly challenged by the expectations brought upon me.
52 I considered the exam requirements to be transparent. 61 My studies did not cause me any difficulties.
The following table explains what high values on a certain factor mean. However, for a more
thorough interpretation it is always possible to go back to the results per item.
Graph 3: Description of the meaning of high scores per factor
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Personal factors Social factors
Extroversion
Sociable, open, adventurous
Frame of mind
Feeling powerful and comfortable, no (psycho-somatic) afflictions
Social integration
Existing contacts and exchange with students and teaching staff
Accepting assistance
Knowledge about support options and accepting assistance
Academic factors Orientation factors
Diligence
Approach to learning, including ‘locus of control’, i.e. the belief that learning indeed leads to success
Theory orientation
Interested more in theory than pure practical approaches
Intrinsic motivation
Studying out of interest and personal development, less for financial reasons or career plans
Determination/goal orientation
Setting goals and proceeding accordingly and methodological
Identification with the university
Content at the university, trust in the institution
Fulfilment of expectations
Self image and self perception while studying concur
It is important to note that the survey reflects the universities’ performance towards students, or
more precisely, diverse groups of students, which can be characterised on the basis of how
students deal with the challenges of studying.
The following chapters present all data from the survey, comparing university specific results
with the results of all participating universities (UNIFI).
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5 YOPALA results Summer Term 2013
5.1 Background information on the students
5.1.1 Routes to university
How were you admitted to study (towards this degree)?
Aalto University
TOTAL
entrance exam 80% 81%
matriculation exam 16% 11%
credits gained at the Open University 0% 3%
transferred from within the same university 2% 2%
transferred from another HEI 0% 1%
entrance exam for international degree students 0% 0%
Other: 3% 2%
TOTAL (N) 259 2669
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5.1.2 Financing
How have you funded your studies? Aalto
University TOTAL
Parents / Family
Completely 5% 6%
Partially 60% 60%
Not at all 35% 34%
Student loan
Completely 8% 12%
Partially 36% 37%
Not at all 57% 50%
Student grant
Completely 63% 73%
Partially 35% 23%
Not at all 2% 4%
Scholarship
Completely 0 1%
Partially 23% 19%
Not at all 77% 80%
Personal income through work
Completely 63% 51%
Partially 35% 46%
Not at all 1% 3%
Other personal income
Completely 9% 8%
Partially 30% 25%
Not at all 62% 66%
TOTAL (N) 199 2000
How do you assess your financial situation? Aalto
University TOTAL
My situation is comfortable. 44% 28%
It could be better, but I get by. 38% 38%
Money is rather tight. 14% 27%
I have big financial problems. 1% 4%
I fear that I will have to drop out of university in the near future because of financial reasons.
3% 2%
TOTAL (N) 256 2638
5.1.3 Age
Please state your age Aalto
University TOTAL QUEST MEMO
Differences between YOPALA and MEMO
age 21-25 60% 56% 69% 90% age <=25
age 26-30 33% 30% 25% 9%
age 31-40 6% 9% 5% 2%
age 41-50 1% 4% 1% 0%
age 51-60 0 2% 0% 0%
age 61 und more 0 0% 0% 0%
TOTAL (N) 255 2626 4680 2118
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5.1.4 Gender
Please indicate your gender
Aalto University
TOTAL QUEST MEMO Differences between
YOPALA and QUEST
Male 66% 34% 41% 35%
Female 34% 64% 58% 65%
I do not want to answer this question.
0% 1% 1% - I cannot definitively identify myself with either gender.
TOTAL (N) 254 2624 5241 2133
5.1.5 Spatial distance to university
How far away from the university did you grow up or go to school, respectively?
Aalto University
TOTAL
In the city, in the vicinity of the university 29% 19%
In the region, in the catchment area 41% 32%
Further away (over 150 km) 30% 49%
I am not from Finland myself. 0% 1%
TOTAL (N) 254 2623
5.1.6 Family background
Did your parents/siblings attend university?
Aalto University
TOTAL QUEST MEMO Differences between YOPALA and MEMO
No family member had studied 22% 37% 33% 41% Parents did not attend university.
Parent(s) and/or sibling(s) have studied
78% 63% 67% 59% Parents attended university.
TOTAL (N) 221 2155 4294 2128
5.1.7 Language
Which languages did you grow up speaking? (multiple choice allowed)
Aalto University
TOTAL
Finnish 96% 95%
Swedish 10% 9%
Sami 0 0%
Other: 6% 5%
TOTAL (N) 254 2629
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5.1.8 Choice of study
Has your current university been the first choice for your studies?
Aalto University
TOTAL QUEST
Yes, I wanted to attend this specific university. 86% 80% 71%
No, originally I wanted to go to another university. 7% 12% 15%
I transferred here from another university. 4% 3% 6%
I cannot or don't want to answer this question. 2% 3% 9%
No, originally I wanted to go to another HEI 0 1% -
I transferred here from another higher education institution 0% 2% -
TOTAL (N) 251 2597 5212
Please name your three most important reasons
for choosing your field of study*
Aalto University
TOTAL
because it conforms with my interests and talents 1,2 1,3
to develop myself personally 2,2 2,2
because of a suggestion of an advice centre, parents or friends
2,3 2,3
to achieve a distinguished professional position 2,3 2,4
to achieve a secure professional position 2,5 2,3
to achieve a good income 2,4 2,5
because of a lack of alternatives 2,9 2,4
because I can organise my time freely during my studies 3,1 2,6
because I want to learn by doing research 2,7 2,6
TOTAL (N) 225 2356
*The participants were asked to name the three most important motives, but could rank all nine motives mentioned. The table reflects the average rank (from rank 1 – very important to rank 9 – least important).
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5.1.9 Previous vocational education
Have you already obtained one of the following qualifications? (multiple choice allowed)
Aalto University
TOTAL QUEST Differences between
YOPALA and QUEST
Yes, I have completed a vocational training. 2% 9% 14% Yes, I have completed a vocational training at a school or in a company
Yes, I have obtained a higher education degree (bachelor).
7% 16% 39% Yes, I have already obtained a college or university degree
Yes, I have obtained a higher education degree (master or higher).
2% 3% - New item 2013
I have obtained a qualification abroad. 0% 0% - New item 2013
No, I did not yet obtain a vocational qualification.
88% 72% 51%
TOTAL (N) 259 2668 5255
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5.2 Background per fields of study
5.2.1 Participants per fields of study
What is your field of study? Aalto
University TOTAL
Theology 0 1%
The humanities 0 17%
Art and design 1% 0%
Music 0 1%
Theatre and dance 0 0%
Education 0 12%
Sport sciences 0 1%
Social sciences 0 11%
Psychology 0 2%
Health sciences 0 2%
Law 0 3%
Economics 18% 9%
Natural sciences 1% 13%
Agriculture and forestry 0 1%
Engineering 80% 18%
Medicine 0 5%
Dentistry 0 1%
Veterinary medicine 0 1%
Pharmacy 0 1%
Fine arts 0% 0%
TOTAL (N) 259 2665
The following chapters 5.2.2 – 5.2.10 present students’ background per fields of study based on
survey results for all participating universities (UNIFI).
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5.2.2 Routes to university per fields of study
How were you admitted to study (towards this degree)? T
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Sp
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Psych
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Hea
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Den
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Ph
arm
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Fin
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rts
TOTAL
Entrance exam 100% 91% 100% 100% 100% 90% 100% 89% 96% 82% 85% 83% 57% 88% 63% 98% 96% 100% 100% 100% 81%
Matriculation exam 0% 2% 0% 0% 0% 1% 0% 2% 0% 0% 4% 7% 33% 6% 31% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 11%
Open University credits 0% 3% 0% 0% 0% 6% 0% 4% 0% 18% 10% 4% 2% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 3%
Transferred from the same university
0% 3% 0% 0% 0% 1% 0% 3% 0% 0% 0% 1% 2% 3% 3% 1% 0% 0% 0% 0% 2%
Transferred from another HEI
0% 1% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 1% 2% 2% 0% 0% 0% 4% 0% 0% 0% 1%
Entrance exam for international degree students
0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0%
Another way 0% 1% 0% 0% 0% 2% 0% 1% 4% 0% 0% 1% 3% 3% 2% 1% 0% 0% 0% 0% 2%
TOTAL (N) 36 455 6 30 3 311 23 305 47 60 80 230 342 32 486 143 26 18 18 7 2658
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5.2.3 Financing
How have you funded your studies? T
he
olo
gy
Th
e
hu
man
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s
Art
an
d
de
sig
n
Mu
sic
Th
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and
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Ed
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Sp
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Psych
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Hea
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La
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Eco
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Natu
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Ag
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Me
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Den
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Ve
teri
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me
dic
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Ph
arm
acy
Fin
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rts
TOTAL
Parents / Family
Completely 6% 5% 0% 8% 0% 4% 0% 8% 5% 3% 7% 7% 10% 12% 5% 10% 9% 0% 7% 17% 6%
Partially 68% 60% 60% 60% 67% 60% 75% 59% 75% 35% 66% 59% 54% 56% 61% 66% 70% 88% 53% 50% 60%
Not at all 26% 35% 40% 32% 33% 36% 25% 33% 20% 62% 26% 35% 36% 32% 35% 25% 22% 12% 40% 33% 34%
Student loan
Completely 0% 11% 0% 17% 100% 12% 10% 14% 20% 8% 8% 15% 9% 9% 9% 24% 36% 13% 13% 33% 12%
Partially 40% 38% 20% 33% 0% 40% 30% 47% 38% 19% 41% 45% 30% 35% 35% 35% 32% 44% 38% 33% 38%
Not at all 60% 50% 80% 50% 0% 48% 60% 40% 42% 72% 52% 40% 61% 57% 56% 41% 32% 44% 50% 33% 50%
Student grant
Completely 74% 76% 33% 75% 100% 76% 86% 76% 87% 30% 54% 61% 76% 54% 71% 82% 76% 83% 72% 71% 72%
Partially 24% 22% 67% 21% 0% 18% 14% 20% 13% 35% 39% 34% 20% 43% 27% 18% 24% 11% 28% 14% 24%
Not at all 3% 3% 0% 4% 0% 6% 0% 3% 0% 35% 7% 5% 4% 4% 2% 1% 0% 6% 0% 14% 4%
Scholarship
Completely 4% 1% 0% 0% 0% 2% 0% 2% 0% 0% 0% 1% 1% 0% 1% 1% 0% 0% 0% 0% 1%
Partially 18% 24% 0% 30% 0% 11% 10% 21% 11% 12% 19% 31% 15% 14% 21% 13% 0% 33% 15% 0% 19%
Not at all 79% 76% 100% 70% 100% 87% 90% 77% 89% 88% 81% 68% 84% 86% 79% 86% 100% 67% 85% 100% 80%
Personal income through
work
Completely 44% 42% 67% 50% 33% 55% 50% 52% 50% 75% 40% 57% 44% 58% 60% 36% 39% 61% 61% 60% 51%
Partially 53% 54% 33% 50% 67% 40% 50% 45% 48% 22% 58% 40% 50% 39% 38% 59% 57% 33% 39% 40% 46%
Not at all 3% 4% 0% 0% 0% 4% 0% 3% 2% 3% 3% 3% 5% 3% 2% 5% 4% 6% 0% 0% 3%
Other personal income
Completely 0% 5% 17% 10% 0% 11% 11% 9% 0% 24% 10% 14% 6% 24% 6% 4% 15% 23% 0% 17% 8%
Partially 29% 25% 33% 35% 0% 21% 33% 27% 30% 22% 32% 31% 23% 12% 26% 28% 30% 15% 0% 33% 25%
Not at all 71% 70% 50% 55% 100% 69% 56% 64% 70% 54% 58% 55% 71% 64% 68% 67% 55% 62% 100% 50% 66%
TOTAL (N) 34 436 6 28 3 292 22 287 46 59 78 214 320 31 473 134 23 18 18 5 2527
YOPALA report | Aalto University | July 2013
Page 21 of 47
How do you assess your financial situation? T
he
olo
gy
Th
e
hu
man
itie
s
Art
an
d
de
sig
n
Mu
sic
Th
ea
tre
and
da
nce
Ed
uca
tio
n
Sp
ort
scie
nce
s
So
cia
l
scie
nce
s
Psych
olo
gy
Hea
lth
scie
nce
s
La
w
Eco
nom
ics
Natu
ral
scie
nce
s
Ag
ricultu
re
an
d f
ore
str
y
En
gin
ee
ring
Me
dic
ine
Den
tistr
y
Ve
teri
na
ry
me
dic
ine
Ph
arm
acy
Fin
e a
rts
TOTAL
My situation is comfortable.
30% 20% 17% 17% 0% 23% 32% 25% 15% 34% 27% 31% 30% 13% 43% 30% 29% 22% 28% 14% 28%
It could be better, but I get by.
35% 38% 33% 53% 33% 40% 32% 39% 55% 41% 30% 41% 41% 58% 35% 33% 38% 33% 61% 0% 39%
Money is rather tight. 32% 37% 33% 27% 67% 31% 36% 31% 26% 22% 38% 22% 23% 23% 17% 30% 17% 39% 11% 86% 27%
I have big financial problems.
0% 5% 0% 3% 0% 4% 0% 5% 2% 3% 4% 4% 4% 0% 3% 8% 17% 6% 0% 0% 4%
I fear that I will have to drop out of university in the near future because of financial reasons.
3% 1% 17% 0% 0% 3% 0% 1% 2% 0% 1% 1% 1% 6% 2% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 2%
TOTAL (N) 37 450 6 30 3 311 22 303 47 59 79 224 338 31 479 142 24 18 18 7 2628
5.2.4 Age
Please state your age
Th
eo
log
y
Th
e
hu
man
itie
s
Art
an
d
de
sig
n
Mu
sic
Th
ea
tre
and
da
nce
Ed
uca
tio
n
Sp
ort
scie
nce
s
So
cia
l
scie
nce
s
Psych
olo
gy
Hea
lth
scie
nce
s
La
w
Eco
nom
ics
Natu
ral
scie
nce
s
Ag
ricultu
re
an
d f
ore
str
y
En
gin
ee
ring
Me
dic
ine
Den
tistr
y
Ve
teri
na
ry
me
dic
ine
Ph
arm
acy
Fin
e a
rts
TOTAL
age 21-25 59% 58% 50% 45% 33% 54% 73% 49% 64% 8% 44% 56% 56% 39% 57% 80% 60% 72% 89% 43% 56%
age 26-30 19% 28% 50% 48% 33% 25% 27% 30% 21% 17% 34% 30% 33% 32% 36% 16% 32% 22% 11% 43% 30%
age 31-40 11% 7% 0% 7% 33% 11% 0% 11% 13% 33% 18% 10% 8% 23% 5% 2% 8% 0% 0% 14% 9%
age 41-50 5% 3% 0% 0% 0% 6% 0% 7% 2% 20% 1% 3% 2% 6% 1% 1% 0% 6% 0% 0% 4%
age 51-60 5% 2% 0% 0% 0% 3% 0% 2% 0% 22% 3% 1% 1% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 2%
age 61 und more 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 1% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0%
TOTAL (N) 37 448 6 29 3 308 22 303 47 60 79 221 338 31 475 141 25 18 18 7 2616
YOPALA report | Aalto University | July 2013
Page 22 of 47
5.2.5 Gender
Please indicate your gender
Th
eo
log
y
Th
e
hu
man
itie
s
Art
an
d
de
sig
n
Mu
sic
Th
ea
tre
and
da
nce
Ed
uca
tio
n
Sp
ort
scie
nce
s
So
cia
l
scie
nce
s
Psych
olo
gy
Hea
lth
scie
nce
s
La
w
Eco
nom
ics
Natu
ral
scie
nce
s
Ag
ricultu
re
an
d f
ore
str
y
En
gin
ee
ring
Me
dic
ine
Den
tistr
y
Ve
teri
na
ry
me
dic
ine
Ph
arm
acy
Fin
e a
rts
TOTAL
Male 35% 15% 33% 34% 67% 8% 27% 24% 6% 2% 32% 46% 49% 26% 69% 41% 24% 11% 17% 57% 34%
Female 65% 82% 67% 62% 33% 91% 73% 73% 94% 98% 68% 53% 49% 74% 30% 59% 76% 89% 83% 43% 64%
I do not want to answer this question.
0% 2% 0% 3% 0% 1% 0% 3% 0% 0% 0% 1% 2% 0% 1% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 1%
TOTAL (N) 37 449 6 29 3 309 22 302 47 60 79 222 338 31 473 139 25 18 18 7 2614
5.2.6 Spatial distance to university
How far away from the university did you grow up or go to school, respectively?
Th
eo
log
y
Th
e
hu
man
itie
s
Art
an
d
de
sig
n
Mu
sic
Th
ea
tre
and
da
nce
Ed
uca
tio
n
Sp
ort
scie
nce
s
So
cia
l
scie
nce
s
Psych
olo
gy
Hea
lth
scie
nce
s
La
w
Eco
nom
ics
Natu
ral
scie
nce
s
Ag
ricultu
re
an
d f
ore
str
y
En
gin
ee
ring
Me
dic
ine
Den
tistr
y
Ve
teri
na
ry
me
dic
ine
Ph
arm
acy
Fin
e a
rts
TOTAL
in the city, in the vicinity of the university
14% 17% 33% 7% 0% 16% 10% 22% 11% 14% 14% 23% 18% 13% 22% 26% 12% 6% 6% 29% 19%
in the region, in the catchment area
41% 33% 0% 24% 33% 23% 14% 29% 32% 17% 30% 35% 38% 48% 36% 23% 24% 33% 33% 29% 32%
further away (over 150 km)
46% 48% 67% 66% 67% 61% 76% 49% 57% 68% 56% 41% 44% 39% 42% 50% 64% 61% 61% 29% 49%
I am not from Finland myself.
0% 2% 0% 3% 0% 1% 0% 0% 0% 2% 0% 0% 1% 0% 0% 1% 0% 0% 0% 14% 1%
TOTAL (N) 37 448 6 29 3 308 21 302 47 59 79 222 338 31 475 141 25 18 18 7 2614
YOPALA report | Aalto University | July 2013
Page 23 of 47
5.2.7 Family background
Did your parents/siblings attend university? T
he
olo
gy
Th
e
hu
man
itie
s
Art
an
d
de
sig
n
Mu
sic
Th
ea
tre
and
da
nce
Ed
uca
tio
n
Sp
ort
scie
nce
s
So
cia
l
scie
nce
s
Psych
olo
gy
Hea
lth
scie
nce
s
La
w
Eco
nom
ics
Natu
ral
scie
nce
s
Ag
ricultu
re
an
d f
ore
str
y
En
gin
ee
ring
Me
dic
ine
Den
tistr
y
Ve
teri
na
ry
me
dic
ine
Ph
arm
acy
Fin
e a
rts
TOTAL
no family member had studied
45% 43% 17% 24% 0% 49% 33% 39% 24% 51% 41% 30% 40% 46% 28% 30% 18% 28% 6% 33% 37%
parent(s) and/or sibling(s) have studied
55% 57% 83% 76% 100% 51% 67% 61% 76% 49% 59% 70% 60% 54% 72% 70% 82% 72% 94% 67% 63%
TOTAL (N) 29 356 6 25 2 244 21 255 41 43 63 184 272 26 395 122 22 18 17 6 2147
5.2.8 Language
Which languages did you grow up speaking? T
he
olo
gy
Th
e
hu
man
itie
s
Art
an
d
de
sig
n
Mu
sic
Th
ea
tre
and
da
nce
Ed
uca
tio
n
Sp
ort
scie
nce
s
So
cia
l
scie
nce
s
Psych
olo
gy
He
alth
scie
nce
s
La
w
Eco
nom
ics
Natu
ral
scie
nce
s
Ag
ricultu
re
an
d f
ore
str
y
En
gin
ee
ring
Me
dic
ine
Den
tistr
y
Ve
teri
na
ry
me
dic
ine
Ph
arm
acy
Fin
e a
rts
TOTAL
Finnish 100% 95% 100% 97% 100% 96% 100% 95% 98% 95% 94% 91% 94% 100% 97% 96% 100% 89% 94% 71% 95%
Swedish 5% 10% 0% 10% 0% 8% 9% 8% 6% 5% 13% 17% 9% 3% 7% 4% 4% 11% 6% 14% 9%
Sami 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0%
Other 0% 6% 0% 10% 0% 3% 0% 7% 4% 7% 3% 7% 4% 10% 5% 3% 0% 0% 0% 14% 5%
TOTAL (N) 37 448 6 29 3 309 22 302 47 60 79 223 338 31 475 142 25 18 18 7 2619
YOPALA report | Aalto University | July 2013
Page 24 of 47
5.2.9 Choice of study
Has your current university been the first choice for your studies? T
he
olo
gy
Th
e
hu
man
itie
s
Art
an
d
de
sig
n
Mu
sic
Th
ea
tre
and
da
nce
Ed
uca
tio
n
Sp
ort
scie
nce
s
So
cia
l
scie
nce
s
Psych
olo
gy
Hea
lth
scie
nce
s
La
w
Eco
nom
ics
Natu
ral
scie
nce
s
Ag
ricultu
re
an
d f
ore
str
y
En
gin
ee
ring
Me
dic
ine
Den
tistr
y
Ve
teri
na
ry
me
dic
ine
Ph
arm
acy
Fin
e a
rts
TOTAL
Yes, I wanted to attend this specific university.
92% 80% 67% 83% 100% 80% 91% 77% 83% 91% 83% 68% 78% 81% 82% 85% 83% 78% 100% 100% 80%
No, originally I wanted to go to another university.
3% 10% 17% 3% 0% 14% 5% 14% 13% 3% 10% 26% 12% 6% 11% 10% 0% 11% 0% 0% 12%
I transferred here from another university.
0% 3% 17% 0% 0% 2% 0% 4% 0% 0% 3% 3% 4% 6% 3% 3% 8% 6% 0% 0% 3%
I cannot or don't want to answer this question.
6% 4% 0% 3% 0% 2% 5% 2% 2% 3% 0% 1% 5% 0% 3% 1% 4% 0% 0% 0% 3%
No, originally I wanted to go to another HEI
0% 1% 0% 3% 0% 1% 0% 1% 0% 0% 1% 0% 1% 3% 1% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 1%
I transferred here from another HEI.
0% 1% 0% 7% 0% 1% 0% 3% 2% 2% 3% 1% 2% 3% 1% 1% 4% 6% 0% 0% 2%
TOTAL (N) 36 445 6 29 3 307 22 299 47 58 78 218 336 31 469 136 24 18 18 7 2587
YOPALA report | Aalto University | July 2013
Page 25 of 47
5.2.10 Performance during the first years of studying
How do you evaluate your performance as a student in the first years of your studies?
Th
eo
log
y
Th
e
hu
man
itie
s
Art
an
d
de
sig
n
Mu
sic
Th
ea
tre
and
da
nce
Ed
uca
tio
n
Sp
ort
scie
nce
s
So
cia
l
scie
nce
s
Psych
olo
gy
Hea
lth
scie
nce
s
La
w
Eco
nom
ics
Natu
ral
scie
nce
s
Ag
ricultu
re
an
d f
ore
str
y
En
gin
ee
ring
Me
dic
ine
Den
tistr
y
Ve
teri
na
ry
me
dic
ine
Ph
arm
acy
Fin
e a
rts
TOTAL
I (probably) belonged to the top third of my year.
49% 49% 83% 38% 67% 42% 45% 39% 49% 46% 34% 34% 40% 29% 39% 28% 24% 6% 44% 57% 40%
I was (probably) amongst my year's average.
46% 47% 17% 48% 0% 54% 55% 52% 43% 49% 52% 56% 50% 58% 44% 59% 68% 89% 56% 29% 50%
I (probably) belonged to the bottom third of my year.
5% 3% 0% 3% 0% 2% 0% 5% 6% 3% 10% 9% 7% 6% 14% 10% 4% 6% 0% 0% 7%
I cannot say. 0% 2% 0% 10% 33% 3% 0% 4% 2% 2% 4% 1% 3% 6% 2% 3% 4% 0% 0% 14% 3%
TOTAL (N) 37 445 6 29 3 306 22 298 47 59 79 220 335 31 469 138 25 18 18 7 2592
YOPALA report | Aalto University | July 2013
Page 26 of 47
5.3 Student life outside university
5.3.1 Job and relation of the job to the field of study
Do you have any employment sources parallel to your studies?
Aalto University
TOTAL QUEST
Yes, during term time. 20% 12% 21%
Yes, but mainly during term breaks. 25% 32% 12%
Yes, during term time as well as during breaks. 47% 41% 41%
At present I do not work but intend to do so in the foreseeable future.
5% 9% 19%
At present I do not work and I do not intend to work. 2% 7% 6%
TOTAL (N) 259 2654 5233
Is your job (or at least one of your jobs) related to the subject you are studying?
Aalto University
TOTAL QUEST MEMO Differences between YOPALA and MEMO
My job is clearly related to the subject I am studying and/or my possible future field of work.
84% 63% 50% 43%
My work was clearly related to my degree and/or my future field of work.
There is little relation between my current job and my studies or the professional career I am hoping to embark on.
14% 33% 39% 43%
My work had hardly anything to do with the content of my studies or my career aspirations.
I cannot say (yet). 2% 4% 11% 14%
TOTAL (N) 240 2226 4189 14
Extent of the job Aalto
University TOTAL QUEST
less than 8 hours per week 11% 15% 32%
from 8 to 19 hours per week 42% 28% 46%
more than 19 hours per week 30% 27% 9%
only during term break 16% 30% 14%
TOTAL (N) 240 2229 4096
5.3.2 Extracurricular activities
Are you involved in any of the following extra-curricular activities? (multiple choice allowed)
Aalto University
TOTAL QUEST MEMO
Cultural/artistic activities 45% 49% 42% 45%
Athletic activities 87% 84% 70% 65%
Handcrafting/technical activities 17% 25% - -
Entrepreneurial activities 4% 4% - -
No, no activities of this kind. 7% 7% 18% 19%
TOTAL (N) 255 2642 5255 2140
YOPALA report | Aalto University | July 2013
Page 27 of 47
Are those activities organised by or at the university/student union? (multiple choice allowed)
Aalto University
TOTAL QUEST
Yes, they take place at the university / student union. 12% 11% 7%
Yes, they are organised by the university or university / student union members.
7% 7% 4%
They are partly organised by the university / student union. 32% 23% 30%
No, these activities are independent of the university/student union.
53% 62% 61%
TOTAL (N) 237 2462 4345
Are you currently involved in volunteer or association activities? (multiple choice allowed)
Aalto University
TOTAL
I am involved in on-campus volunteer activities (e.g. in a student association).
29% 17%
I am involved in off-campus volunteer activities. 19% 24%
No, I am not currently involved in any volunteer activities. 60% 64%
TOTAL (N) 255 2634
5.3.3 Satisfaction generally
How satisfied are you currently with the following aspects of your life?*
Aalto University
TOTAL QUEST** MEMO
With your family life 9,07 9,24 7,48 8,78
With your circle of friends and acquaintances 9,12 9,00 7,34 8,95
With your life in general 9,01 8,95 7,07 8,85
TOTAL (N) 254 2616 2645 362
*The participants were asked to rank each aspect on a scale from 0% - completely unsatisfied to 100% - completely satisfied. The table reflects the average rank (from rank 1 – 0% to rank 11 – 100%).
**QUEST participants were asked to rank each aspect on a scale from 1 – completely dissatisfied to 10 – completely
satisfied.
YOPALA report | Aalto University | July 2013
Page 28 of 47
5.3.4 Supporting factors
Please asses the following statement Aalto
University TOTAL
I feel comfortable and welcome at my university.
Agree 44% 47%
Somewhat agree 37% 39%
Somewhat disagree 12% 11%
Disagree 7% 4%
TOTAL (N) 248 2566
Please asses the following statement Aalto
University TOTAL
I am satisfied with my course of studies .
Agree 31% 35%
Somewhat agree 45% 46%
Somewhat disagree 18% 15%
Disagree 6% 4%
TOTAL (N) 251 2603
Please asses the following statement Aalto
University TOTAL
I have family who supports and strengthens me in my studies.
Agree 74% 71%
Somewhat agree 22% 24%
Somewhat disagree 3% 4%
Disagree 1% 1%
TOTAL (N) 248 2575
Please asses the following statement Aalto
University TOTAL
I have a circle of friends who supports and strengthens me in my studies.
Agree 59% 62%
Somewhat agree 33% 33%
Somewhat disagree 7% 5%
Disagree 1% 1%
TOTAL (N) 245 2539
Please asses the following statement Aalto
University TOTAL
My private life is rather not conducive for my studies in the moment.
Agree 6% 7%
Somewhat agree 12% 20%
Somewhat disagree 18% 18%
Disagree 64% 55%
TOTAL (N) 245 2536
YOPALA report | Aalto University | July 2013
Page 29 of 47
5.4 Student experience at university
5.4.1 Specifics of the programme
There are special circumstances concerning my studies (multiple choice allowed)
Aalto University
TOTAL QUEST Differences between
YOPALA and QUEST
My studies qualify for a certain profession. 27% 44% 22% Study programme to become a teacher
Study programme with more than one major field
43% 15% 5%
Study programme with major and minor fields 89% 76% 9%
I am enrolled in more than one study programme.
3% 6% 2%
My study programme takes place at different sites or institutions.
10% 10%
My programme is structured as a extra-occupational programme.
20% 17%
There are no specialities to my study programme.
4% 6% 63%
Other specialities: 5% 5% 6%
TOTAL 259 2678 5255
Students had the opportunity to add aspects they consider a speciality of their studies. The
following list reflects the different aspects mentioned by the students of the Aalto University.
YOPALA report | Aalto University | July 2013
Page 30 of 47
5.4.2 Performance in university
How do you evaluate your performance as a student in the first years of your studies?
Aalto University
TOTAL QUEST MEMO
I (probably) belonged to the top third of my year. 42% 40% 53% 62%
I was (probably) amongst my year's average. 42% 50% 41% 36%
I (probably) belonged to the bottom third of my year. 15% 7% 6% 2%
I cannot say. 1% 3%
TOTAL (N) 252 2602 5229 2119
Do you think that you acquired a lot more credit points in the first three years of your studies than what was required for the degree?
Aalto University
TOTAL
No, I only acquired about 180 credit points for my bachelor’s degree/in the first three years of my studies.
62% 51%
I cannot / do not want to answer this question. 10% 7%
Yes, I acquired additional credit points for my degree/in the first three years.
28% 42%
TOTAL (N) 251 2596
How confident are you at the moment that you will complete your current degree successfully?
Aalto University
TOTAL
0% - not confident 1% 1%
10% 0% 0%
20% 1% 0%
30% 1% 1%
40% 0% 0%
50% - unsure 2% 3%
60% 0% 3%
70% 3% 5%
80% 9% 11%
90% 22% 22%
100% - completely confident 59% 54%
TOTAL (N) 251 2597
5.4.3 Time management
Please state the extent to which you agree/disagree with the following statement
Aalto University
TOTAL QUEST MEMO
The mandatory amount of attendance set for the study programme is appropriate.
Agree 52% 53% 29% 1%
Somewhat agree 26% 26% 40% 6%
Somewhat disagree 10% 12% 16% 28%
Disagree 3% 5% 9% 65%
I cannot assess this statement. 8% 5% 5%
TOTAL (N) 249 2540 2639 345
YOPALA report | Aalto University | July 2013
Page 31 of 47
Please state the extent to which you agree/disagree with the following statement
Aalto University
TOTAL QUEST MEMO
The good organisation of my personal affairs and employment activities allow me to participate in all my courses without any trouble.
Agree 33% 44% 20% 2%
Somewhat agree 36% 30% 31% 5%
Somewhat disagree 16% 15% 24% 31%
Disagree 11% 8% 17% 62%
I cannot assess this statement. 3% 2% 9%
TOTAL (N) 249 2538 2637 294
Please state the extent to which you agree/disagree with the following statement
Aalto University
TOTAL QUEST MEMO
The support offered in the context of my study programme (i.e. guidance) allows me to study independently.
Agree 21% 23% 7% 5%
Somewhat agree 34% 35% 24% 18%
Somewhat disagree 15% 17% 38% 40%
Disagree 12% 10% 22% 37%
I cannot assess this statement. 17% 16% 9%
TOTAL (N) 249 2538 2640 340
Please state the extent to which you agree/disagree with the following statement
Aalto University
TOTAL QUEST MEMO
I dedicate enough time to the required independent study.
Agree 30% 34% 13% 0%
Somewhat agree 37% 38% 38% 8%
Somewhat disagree 24% 21% 31% 41%
Disagree 8% 5% 16% 51%
I cannot assess this statement. 2% 1% 3%
TOTAL (N) 249 2538 2635 351
Please state the extent to which you agree/disagree with the following statement
Aalto University
TOTAL QUEST MEMO
Professors are open to students' questions and concerns outside class and office hours.
Agree 16% 24% 23% 4%
Somewhat agree 31% 33% 38% 11%
Somewhat disagree 18% 16% 16% 29%
Disagree 10% 9% 8% 56%
I cannot assess this statement. 24% 18% 15%
TOTAL (N) 248 2538 2639 326
YOPALA report | Aalto University | July 2013
Page 32 of 47
5.4.4 University offers (services)
How do you assess the following offers of your university during your studies?
Aalto University
TOTAL
I received a lot of support with the organisation of studies.
Agree 3% 8%
Somewhat agree 27% 28%
Somewhat disagree 25% 24%
Disagree 29% 25%
I did not need support in this issue. 16% 15%
TOTAL (N) 250 2549
How do you assess the following offers of your university during your studies?
Aalto University
TOTAL
I received a lot of support with problems in the course of studies.
Agree 1% 6%
Somewhat agree 14% 20%
Somewhat disagree 18% 20%
Disagree 28% 20%
I did not need support in this issue. 39% 33%
TOTAL (N) 242 2485
How do you assess the following offers of your university during your studies?
Aalto University
TOTAL
I received a lot of support with motivational problems.
Agree 0 1%
Somewhat agree 5% 6%
Somewhat disagree 17% 15%
Disagree 31% 27%
I did not need support in this issue. 47% 51%
TOTAL (N) 237 2409
How do you assess the following offers of your university during your studies?
Aalto University
TOTAL
I received a lot of support with orientation in the course of studies.
Agree 3% 4%
Somewhat agree 22% 19%
Somewhat disagree 29% 24%
Disagree 28% 27%
I did not need support in this issue. 19% 26%
TOTAL (N) 243 2462
YOPALA report | Aalto University | July 2013
Page 33 of 47
How do you assess the following offers of your university during your studies?
Aalto University
TOTAL
I received a lot of support with preparation of the Bachelor thesis.
Agree 36% 32%
Somewhat agree 29% 32%
Somewhat disagree 17% 18%
Disagree 12% 13%
I did not need support in this issue. 6% 6%
TOTAL (N) 247 2481
How do you assess the following offers of your university during your studies?
Aalto University
TOTAL
I received a lot of support with finding opportunities to socialise with other students.
Agree 35% 26%
Somewhat agree 32% 30%
Somewhat disagree 10% 14%
Disagree 7% 8%
I did not need support in this issue. 16% 21%
TOTAL (N) 246 2497
How do you assess the following offers of your university during your studies?
Aalto University
TOTAL
I received a lot of support with looking for accommodation.
Agree 11% 5%
Somewhat agree 24% 12%
Somewhat disagree 11% 8%
Disagree 14% 17%
I did not need support in this issue. 41% 58%
TOTAL (N) 244 2448
How do you assess the following offers of your university during your studies?
Aalto University
TOTAL
I received a lot of support with balancing family and studies.
Agree 0 1%
Somewhat agree 5% 4%
Somewhat disagree 11% 10%
Disagree 18% 21%
I did not need support in this issue. 66% 64%
TOTAL (N) 236 2384
YOPALA report | Aalto University | July 2013
Page 34 of 47
How do you assess the following offers of your university during your studies?
Aalto University
TOTAL
I received a lot of support with health problems.
Agree 7% 8%
Somewhat agree 21% 22%
Somewhat disagree 10% 11%
Disagree 14% 12%
I did not need support in this issue. 47% 47%
TOTAL (N) 242 2440
How do you assess the following offers of your university during your studies?
Aalto University
TOTAL
I received a lot of support with looking for orientation in life.
Agree 0 1%
Somewhat agree 6% 6%
Somewhat disagree 14% 11%
Disagree 23% 24%
I did not need support in this issue. 57% 58%
TOTAL (N) 232 2333
How do you assess the following offers of your university during your studies?
Aalto University
TOTAL
I received a lot of support with looking for orientation in professional life.
Agree 2% 3%
Somewhat agree 23% 20%
Somewhat disagree 25% 22%
Disagree 25% 25%
I did not need support in this issue. 25% 30%
TOTAL (N) 242 2445
How do you assess the following offers of your university during your studies?
Aalto University
TOTAL
I received a lot of support with looking for a job.
Agree 4% 3%
Somewhat agree 22% 12%
Somewhat disagree 29% 20%
Disagree 24% 36%
I did not need support in this issue. 21% 29%
TOTAL (N) 238 2422
YOPALA report | Aalto University | July 2013
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How do you assess the following offers of your university during your studies?
Aalto University
TOTAL
I received a lot of support with balancing job and studies.
Agree 1% 1%
Somewhat agree 7% 5%
Somewhat disagree 16% 13%
Disagree 28% 26%
I did not need support in this issue. 49% 55%
TOTAL (N) 238 2384
How do you assess the following offers of your university during your studies?
Aalto University
TOTAL
I received a lot of support with finding suitable traineeships/internships.
Agree 3% 7%
Somewhat agree 11% 16%
Somewhat disagree 17% 16%
Disagree 33% 28%
I did not need support in this issue. 37% 33%
TOTAL (N) 240 2408
How do you assess the following offers of your university during your studies?
Aalto University
TOTAL
other (offers):
Agree 0 19%
Somewhat agree 0 8%
Somewhat disagree 0 8%
Disagree 75% 18%
I did not need support in this issue. 25% 46%
TOTAL (N) 4 72
YOPALA report | Aalto University | July 2013
Page 36 of 47
5.4.5 Team work
Please state the extent to which you agree/disagree with the following statement
Aalto University
TOTAL QUEST MEMO
The more similar team members are, the more concentrated the group can work.
Agree 16% 15% 24% 16%
Somewhat agree 45% 45% 48% 55%
Somewhat disagree 29% 30% 16% 22%
Disagree 8% 8% 3% 7%
I cannot assess this statement. 3% 3% 9% -
TOTAL (N) 249 2549 2631 1732
Please state the extent to which you agree/disagree with the following statement
Aalto University
TOTAL QUEST MEMO
I feel most comfortable working in teams that were formed according to personal preferences (e.g. together with friends).
Agree 33% 29% 40% 30%
Somewhat agree 45% 45% 40% 48%
Somewhat disagree 17% 19% 11% 16%
Disagree 2% 5% 3% 6%
I cannot assess this statement. 2% 2% 6% -
TOTAL (N) 250 2550 2635 1800
Please state the extent to which you agree/disagree with the following statement
Aalto University
TOTAL QUEST MEMO
I find it exciting if teams are created at random.
Agree 16% 17% 14% 14%
Somewhat agree 44% 47% 30% 39%
Somewhat disagree 29% 23% 31% 30%
Disagree 8% 10% 21% 16%
I cannot assess this statement. 2% 2% 4% -
TOTAL (N) 249 2549 2632 1800
Please state the extent to which you agree/disagree with the following statement
Aalto University
TOTAL QUEST MEMO
I feel under pressure if the results of my teamwork are assessed / marked.
Agree 4% 6% 18% 18%
Somewhat agree 19% 23% 30% 38%
Somewhat disagree 34% 35% 28% 29%
Disagree 42% 34% 17% 15%
I cannot assess this statement. 0 2% 7% -
TOTAL (N) 250 2549 2625 1789
YOPALA report | Aalto University | July 2013
Page 37 of 47
Please state the extent to which you agree/disagree with the following statement
Aalto University
TOTAL QUEST MEMO
I work better and more productively by myself than in a team.
Agree 15% 22% 20% 23%
Somewhat agree 32% 36% 33% 41%
Somewhat disagree 35% 29% 32% 29%
Disagree 10% 8% 9% 6%
I cannot assess this statement. 8% 6% 6% -
TOTAL (N) 250 2550 2628 1749
Please state the extent to which you agree/disagree with the following statement
Aalto University
TOTAL QUEST MEMO
Working in a team means exchange and the attainment of transferable skills, such as dealing with conflicts.
Agree 65% 57% 33% 45%
Somewhat agree 30% 37% 43% 43%
Somewhat disagree 3% 4% 15% 10%
Disagree 1% 1% 6% 2%
I cannot assess this statement. 1% 1% 4% -
TOTAL (N) 250 2550 2634 1808
Please state the extent to which you agree/disagree with the following statement
Aalto University
TOTAL QUEST MEMO
The success of teamwork is strongly dependent on guidance provided by the teacher.
Agree 16% 24% 15% 12%
Somewhat agree 46% 47% 31% 37%
Somewhat disagree 27% 20% 32% 38%
Disagree 7% 5% 14% 13%
I cannot assess this statement. 5% 4% 7% -
TOTAL (N) 250 2549 2631 1774
Please state the extent to which you agree/disagree with the following statement
Aalto University
TOTAL QUEST MEMO
The success of study-related teamwork is easily compromised if some team members do not speak the common language well enough.
Agree 41% 32% 19% 15%
Somewhat agree 36% 39% 22% 36%
Somewhat disagree 15% 13% 21% 36%
Disagree 2% 3% 14% 13%
I cannot assess this statement. 6% 13% 24% -
TOTAL (N) 250 2550 2635 1695
YOPALA report | Aalto University | July 2013
Page 38 of 47
5.4.6 Experience abroad
Please refer to your experiences abroad so far and state the extent to which you agree or disagree with the following statements
Aalto University
TOTAL QUEST MEMO
I have previously stayed abroad for a longer period of time for a school year.
Agree 20% 15% 39% 53%
Somewhat agree 5% 3% 4% 8%
Somewhat disagree 2% 2% 8% 9%
Disagree 72% 79% 49% 30%
TOTAL (N) 244 2448 2637 2066
Please refer to your experiences abroad so far and state the extent to which you agree or disagree with the following statements
Aalto University
TOTAL
I have previously stayed abroad for a longer period of time during my studies (e.g. for a month or a term abroad).
Agree 43% 31%
Somewhat agree 6% 4%
Somewhat disagree 1% 1%
Disagree 50% 64%
TOTAL (N) 246 2457
Please refer to your experiences abroad so far and state the extent to which you agree or disagree with the following statements
Aalto University
TOTAL
A stay abroad is an obligatory element of my university studies.
Agree 2% 7%
Somewhat agree 1% 1%
Somewhat disagree 1% 1%
Disagree 96% 91%
TOTAL (N) 247 2469
Please refer to your experiences abroad so far and state the extent to which you agree or disagree with the following statements
Aalto University
TOTAL QUEST MEMO
Completing my degree within the stipulated timeframe was more important to me than going abroad.
Agree 11% 21% 13% 5%
Somewhat agree 14% 20% 18% 13%
Somewhat disagree 12% 12% 32% 27%
Disagree 63% 47% 38% 55%
TOTAL (N) 232 2301 2621 2077
YOPALA report | Aalto University | July 2013
Page 39 of 47
Please refer to your experiences abroad so far and state the extent to which you agree or disagree with the following statements
Aalto University
TOTAL QUEST MEMO
Preferably, I would like to work in Finland* in the future.
Agree 21% 40% 38% 16%
Somewhat agree 40% 34% 41% 40%
Somewhat disagree 31% 20% 16% 28%
Disagree 7% 6% 4% 15%
TOTAL (N) 238 2419 2616 1898
* In case of QUEST and MEMO – “in my home country”
Please refer to your experiences abroad so far and state the extent to which you agree or disagree with the following statements
Aalto University
TOTAL QUEST MEMO
Gaining international experience is essential for successfully starting a career.
Agree 44% 28% 24% 51%
Somewhat agree 34% 34% 40% 40%
Somewhat disagree 17% 21% 27% 7%
Disagree 5% 17% 9% 2%
TOTAL (N) 232 2404 2611 2059
Please refer to your experiences abroad so far and state the extent to which you agree or disagree with the following statements
Aalto University
TOTAL QUEST MEMO
For my future career, it is important to be familiar with different operational methods in my profession.
Agree 62% 64% 42% 58%
Somewhat agree 35% 32% 42% 33%
Somewhat disagree 2% 3% 13% 7%
Disagree 1% 1% 3% 1%
TOTAL (N) 241 2411 2610 2063
Please refer to your experiences abroad so far and state the extent to which you agree or disagree with the following statements
Aalto University
TOTAL QUEST
I found it difficult to finance a study stay abroad.
Agree 9% 15% 29%
Somewhat agree 16% 22% 27%
Somewhat disagree 22% 21% 23%
Disagree 53% 42% 21%
TOTAL (N) 134 1302 2618
YOPALA report | Aalto University | July 2013
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5.4.7 Information and support
How easy or difficult was it to find information and support on the following aspects of your studies?
Aalto University
TOTAL QUEST MEMO
Finding out which courses are compulsory and which are optional
very easy 30% 31% 20% 5%
moderately easy 54% 57% 51% 23%
moderately difficult 13% 11% 25% 50%
very difficult 3% 1% 4% 22%
TOTAL (N) 248 2535 2624 342
How easy or difficult was it to find information and support on the following aspects of your studies?
Aalto University
TOTAL QUEST MEMO
Finding out which courses can be taken in addition to the study programme (electives)
very easy 19% 20% 9% 8%
moderately easy 53% 58% 35% 37%
moderately difficult 24% 20% 45% 39%
very difficult 4% 2% 11% 17%
TOTAL (N) 245 2525 2592 341
How easy or difficult was it to find information and support on the following aspects of your studies?
Aalto University
TOTAL QUEST MEMO
Finding out who is responsible to help with any organisational problems encountered during the study programme
very easy 15% 19% 12% 3%
moderately easy 48% 48% 37% 24%
moderately difficult 27% 27% 36% 39%
very difficult 9% 6% 15% 34%
TOTAL (N) 248 2511 2592 353
How easy or difficult was it to find information and support on the following aspects of your studies?
Aalto University
TOTAL
Other (aspects):
very easy 8%
moderately easy 15%
moderately difficult 29% 28%
very difficult 71% 49%
TOTAL (N) 7 65
YOPALA report | Aalto University | July 2013
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5.4.8 Participation
Please consider the following statements regarding your studies
Aalto University
TOTAL QUEST MEMO
My schedule was too full (too many attendance hours per week).
Agree 12% 8% 10% 50%
Somewhat agree 33% 27% 24% 31%
Somewhat disagree 37% 36% 31% 17%
Disagree 15% 26% 33% 2%
I cannot assess this statement. 3% 2% 2% -
TOTAL (N) 249 2527 2644 347
Please consider the following statements regarding your studies
Aalto University
TOTAL QUEST MEMO
The credit points given did not reflect my effort, because I had to invest more time.
Agree 32% 17% 14% 30%
Somewhat agree 40% 41% 25% 33%
Somewhat disagree 17% 26% 24% 24%
Disagree 8% 13% 17% 13%
I cannot assess this statement. 2% 3% 20% -
TOTAL (N) 248 2523 2607 329
Please consider the following statements regarding your studies
Aalto University
TOTAL QUEST MEMO
When I had a problem I always found someone to whom I can turn for help.
Agree 13% 25% 20% 5%
Somewhat agree 41% 41% 43% 11%
Somewhat disagree 24% 20% 21% 47%
Disagree 12% 8% 12% 37%
I cannot assess this statement. 10% 5% 4% -
TOTAL (N) 246 2525 2638 350
Please consider the following statements regarding your studies
Aalto University
TOTAL QUEST MEMO
My studies were structured in such a way that it has been easy to make contact with fellow students.
Agree 21% 29% 26% 9%
Somewhat agree 37% 34% 43% 25%
Somewhat disagree 23% 21% 19% 37%
Disagree 11% 12% 10% 28%
I cannot assess this statement. 8% 5% 2% -
TOTAL (N) 249 2522 2641 351
YOPALA report | Aalto University | July 2013
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Please consider the following statements regarding your studies
Aalto University
TOTAL QUEST MEMO
The number of exams per term was too high.
Agree 9% 3% 14% 44%
Somewhat agree 22% 13% 23% 37%
Somewhat disagree 36% 41% 37% 16%
Disagree 28% 40% 22% 3%
I cannot assess this statement. 5% 3% 4% -
TOTAL (N) 249 2528 2646 334
Please consider the following statements regarding your studies
Aalto University
TOTAL QUEST MEMO
I was satisfied with the opportunities I had to influence and participate in my programme.
Agree 9% 13% 7% 6%
Somewhat agree 35% 36% 30% 17%
Somewhat disagree 21% 22% 29% 38%
Disagree 10% 8% 25% 40%
I cannot assess this statement. 24% 21% 8% -
TOTAL (N) 248 2525 2635 96
Please consider the following statements regarding your studies
Aalto University
TOTAL QUEST MEMO
I was satisfied with the contact I had with the faculty.
Agree 22% 32% 17% 3%
Somewhat agree 50% 47% 48% 11%
Somewhat disagree 18% 13% 19% 45%
Disagree 7% 5% 12% 41%
I cannot assess this statement. 3% 3% 4% -
TOTAL (N) 249 2527 2639 340
Please consider the following statements regarding your studies
Aalto University
TOTAL QUEST MEMO
I received sufficient feedback from my professors.
Agree 10% 14% 9% 9%
Somewhat agree 29% 34% 33% 23%
Somewhat disagree 35% 33% 31% 41%
Disagree 23% 17% 20% 27%
I cannot assess this statement. 2% 2% 7% -
TOTAL (N) 248 2526 2639 338
Please consider the following statements regarding your studies
Aalto University
TOTAL QUEST MEMO
The feedback I received from my professors has helped me with my studies.
Agree 12% 23% 12% 11%
Somewhat agree 39% 37% 37% 20%
Somewhat disagree 23% 20% 23% 42%
Disagree 12% 11% 15% 28%
I cannot assess this statement. 14% 9% 13%
TOTAL (N) 249 2521 2634 322
YOPALA report | Aalto University | July 2013
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6 Adaptation
In order to present adaptation of students to university, the 74 QUEST items in YOPALA have
been analysed on the basis of factor analysis. The 10 factors reflect various aspects of
successful adaptation to university, namely:
“Frame of mind“
“Identification with the Higher Education Institution“
“Determination/goal orientation“
“Fulfillment of expectations“
“Theory Orientation“
“Social integration“
“Extraversion“
“Accepting assistance“
“Diligence“
“Intrinsic Motivation“
YOPALA total value refers to adaptation to university in general.
All YOPALA scores are presented on a scale from 1 to 10.
For more information, see chapter “Methodological framework”.
6.1 YOPALA scores
YOPALA factor Aalto
University TOTAL QUEST MEMO
Frame of mind 4,6 4,6 6,5 4,4
Identification with the University 5,9 6,2 7,3 6,7
Determination/goal orientation 6,8 6,9 7,3 7,6
Fulfilled expectations 5,5 5,7 6,8 5,6
Theory Orientation 6,1 6,0 5,5 6,3
Social integration 6,9 6,8 5,7 5,7
Extraversion 5,9 6,0 6,8 4,9
Accepting assistance 7,1 7,4 7,3 7,9
Diligence 5,3 5,0 6,7 5,2
Intrinsic Motivation 6,9 6,9 6,0 6,0
YOPALA total 6,0 6,0 6,6 5,9
TOTAL (N) 246 2503 5255 1579
YOPALA report | Aalto University | July 2013
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6.1.1 YOPALA scores for UNIFI in comparison with QUEST and MEMO
YOPALA report | Aalto University | July 2013
Page 45 of 47
6.2 Adaptation per fields of study
The table shows students’ adaptation (YOPALA scores) per fields of study based on survey results for all participating universities (UNIFI).
Th
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and
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n
Sp
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s
Psych
olo
gy
Hea
lth
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La
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ics
Natu
ral
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Ag
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ore
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dic
ine
Den
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y
Ve
teri
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me
dic
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Ph
arm
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Fin
e a
rts
TOTAL
Frame of mind 4,5 4,6 4,7 4,7 3,8 4,6 4,4 4,5 4,5 4,3 4,7 4,5 4,5 4,5 4,5 4,6 5,1 4,7 4,4 5,2 4,6
Identification 6,1 6,4 6,5 6,5 7,5 6,3 6,4 6,2 6,2 6,1 6,1 6,1 6,3 6,5 6,1 6,3 6,3 5,8 6,8 6,4 6,2
Determination/Goal Orientation
6,7 6,9 6,8 7,3 6,8 7,2 7 6,8 7,2 7,4 7,1 7 6,5 7,1 6,7 7 7,5 6,8 6,9 6,8 6,9
Expectations 5,7 5,8 6 5,7 5,5 5,7 5,8 5,6 5,6 5,8 5,8 5,6 5,6 5,7 5,5 5,8 5,9 5,6 5,6 5,7 5,7
Theory Orientation 6 6,1 6,1 5,6 5,6 6 5,8 6 6,2 6,1 6 5,9 6 6,2 6,1 6,2 6 5,9 6,2 6,3 6
Social Integration 6,4 6,8 6,9 7,6 8,7 7,1 7,8 6,4 7 6,5 6,5 6,7 6,3 6,5 6,7 7,5 7,6 7,3 7,8 7,5 6,8
Extraversion 6,2 6,1 6,3 6,6 7,1 6,4 6,6 6 5,9 6,4 6 6,2 5,6 6,1 5,8 6,2 6,3 5,8 6,2 6 6
Accepting Assistance 7 7,3 7 8,1 8 7,9 7,8 7,1 7,7 8 7,1 7,2 7,2 7,4 7,2 7,5 7,9 8,2 8 7,2 7,4
Diligence 4,7 4,9 5 5,1 3,5 4,8 4,9 5 4,9 4,5 5 5,3 5,1 5,1 5,2 4,9 4,9 5,2 4,9 5,1 5
Intrinsic Motivation 7,1 7 7,5 7,7 8,8 7,1 7,2 7 7,6 6,7 6,8 6,6 6,6 6,9 6,7 7,3 6,7 7,2 7,2 8,4 6,9
YOPALA total 5,9 6,1 6,2 6,3 6,3 6,1 6,2 5,9 6,1 6 6 6 5,8 6,1 5,9 6,2 6,3 6 6,2 6,3 6
TOTAL (N) 34 428 6 27 3 301 22 287 44 59 75 209 319 30 447 136 23 18 18 7 2493
YOPALA report | Aalto University | July 2013
Page 46 of 47
6.3 Scores in comparison
In the following graphs, the grey, green and blue cells show the range of YOPALA values for the
middle third (33%) of all survey respondents (group with the average YOPALA values).
6.3.1 YOPALA scores
6.3.2 YOPALA average scores
YOPALA report | Aalto University | July 2013
Page 47 of 47
6.3.3 YOPALA average scores for Aalto University