Welcome to our latest blog post! Today, we’re diving into the heart of student experiences in higher education. This post is inspired by a thought-provoking discussion from the Student Success US 2023 conference, titled “Student Voice 2023: The top 10 findings so far,” led by Colleen Flaherty, a Senior Reporter at Inside Higher Ed. Colleen’s insights give us a window into what students think and feel about their college journey. Let’s explore these findings and see what they mean for students and educators alike.
Teaching Methods Matter
Have you ever struggled in a class because of how it’s taught? You’re not alone! More than half of the students surveyed said they faced challenges due to teaching styles that didn’t suit them. This was even more common among students with learning disabilities and LGBTQI+ students. It shows us how important it is for teachers to use diverse teaching methods.
Deadline Flexibility
Deadlines can be stressful, right? A lot of students, about 57%, think so too. They wish for more flexibility, especially when unexpected things happen in life. It seems that being a little flexible can go a long way in helping students succeed.
Fair Grading
Grades are a big deal in college. Interestingly, not all students feel grading is done fairly. White students are more likely to believe grades are fair compared to Black, Hispanic, and Asian students. This raises questions about how we can make grading more equitable for everyone.
The Advising Gap
Guess what? Only about half of the students feel they get enough advice on the classes they need to graduate. This is especially true for students of different races and backgrounds. It looks like colleges need to step up their advising game!
Administrative Hurdles
Some students find themselves blocked from registering for classes because of administrative issues. This problem affects Black and Latino students more often. It’s a big deal because it can delay graduation and add extra stress.
Stress and Health
Did you know that chronic stress is a big concern in college? It’s not just about feeling stressed for a day or two but feeling overwhelmed for a long time. This is especially true for students with physical or mental health conditions. Colleges need to find ways to help students manage stress better.
Extracurriculars and Involvement
Being part of clubs or groups in college is great, but not all students get the chance. Students from lower-income families or those attending two-year colleges are less likely to be involved in these activities. These activities are important for making friends and feeling connected.
Orientation Experiences
Starting college can be exciting and scary. How colleges welcome new students really matters. Programs like summer bridge help a lot, especially for first-generation students. It’s all about making everyone feel prepared and included.
Leadership Opportunities
Leadership isn’t just for the few. However, students from lower-income backgrounds often miss out on these chances. Colleges are thinking of new ways to help all students recognize and develop their leadership skills.
Promoting Campus Events
Lastly, many students want to know more about what’s happening on campus. They’re asking for better promotion of events and activities. It’s all about feeling part of the college community.
Conclusion: Listening to the Student Voice
These insights from the Student Success US 2023 conference shed light on what today’s students need and want. From teaching styles to stress management and leadership opportunities, it’s clear that students are looking for a college experience that supports them in every way. As we move forward, let’s keep listening to these students’ voices. They’re not just telling us about their challenges; they’re showing us the path to a better, more inclusive higher education system.
What do you think about these findings? Do you have similar experiences or ideas on improving student life in college? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Additional Reading
Photo by Lukas: https://www.pexels.com/photo/close-up-photo-of-survey-spreadsheet-590022/
