The evaluation of ‘starting university workbook’ as an intervention module at improving the adaptability skills, psychological well-being, and stress among first-year students in Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP)

Amir, Nurul Fatihah and Lourdunathan, Pamilia (2025) The evaluation of ‘starting university workbook’ as an intervention module at improving the adaptability skills, psychological well-being, and stress among first-year students in Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP). IIUM Journal of Human Sciences, 7 (2). pp. 74-87. E-ISSN 2682-8731

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Abstract

ABSTRACT The Starting University Workbook was developed to address the need for psychological support for first-year students at Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS. An evaluation of its effectiveness in improving adaptability skills, psychological well-being, and reducing stress was conducted, as these are considered essential during the transition year for students. The workbook consists of four modules, a web-based assisted intervention. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the Starting University Workbook in enhancing adaptability and psychological well-being and reducing stress among first-year students at UTP. It employed an evaluation which included setting goals, conducting a needs analysis, and assessing the module's effectiveness. All 189 first-year students, aged 16-24, were recruited and given access to complete the four modules integrated into the Ulearn system. Study outcomes were measured using self-reported questionnaires, including the Student Adaptability College Questionnaire, Psychological Wellbeing Scale, and Perceived Stress Scale, administered before and after the intervention to both completers and non-completers. Results indicated that those who completed the Starting University Module showed improvements in adaptability skills and psychological well-being compared to non-completers. However, no significant impact on perceived stress was observed. This study explicitly highlights potential pathways to incorporate the Starting University Workbook as a psychological support programme for first-year students, with suggestions for enhancements, such as the inclusion of mindfulness practices and gamification, to create a more versatile interface.

Item Type:	Article (Journal)
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Keywords: adaptability, effectiveness, first year students, perceived stress, psychological wellbeing,
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology > BF180 Experimental psychology
Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button):	Kulliyyah of Islamic Revealed Knowledge and Human Sciences > Department of Psychology Kulliyyah of Islamic Revealed Knowledge and Human Sciences
Depositing User:	Dr. Pamilia Lourdunathan
Date Deposited:	31 Dec 2025 16:03
Last Modified:	31 Dec 2025 16:03
Queue Number:	2025-12-Q1257
URI:	http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/126359

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