Preparing Study Resources: Research on the suitability of a manual as a study aid for IT Tallaght Accounting Students

Abstract

This dissertation studies the suitability of an accounting manual as a study aid for IT Tallaght accounting and finance students. Research of the literature was carried out to assess the pedagogical approaches to be used in preparing this resource. Sample chapters were written based on that literature review and the chapters were then used as a resource in class with feedback on their appropriateness being obtained from students. Students were surveyed to answer the research questions as to the suitability of such a manual as a study resource for independent learning and the appropriateness of the approaches used therein for the learning needs of students. Student feedback overwhelmingly favoured the compilation of such a resource and the approach used in the sample chapters was positively received with students finding that the inclusion of many worked examples gave them the “scaffolding” they needed to move from novice learners to more expert learners in the topics covered. Further positive feedback was also received together with some suggestions from students for additional material to be included therein. The availability of this resource for IT Tallaght students will provide them with a resource useful in encouraging their learning both now and in the “real world” when they put that learning into practice.