Achieving the Dream - Student Success Initiatives
The College has identified three areas on which to focus its efforts:
Developmental Math instruction: Because 70% of our students need to improve their skills in math before pursuing college-level math and science, and because developmental math is a difficult requirement for many students to complete, the College is offering increased support to students. Through this initiative, students are offered the opportunity to take developmental classes that meet for 6 hours per week rather than the traditional class which meets for only three hours per week. More time in class means more time for instruction and individual and group projects. Results from the 2009-10 year show that the extended-hours format has been very successful for students.
A Foundation for College Success: While the transition to college can be challenging for all students, it is particularly difficult for students who need to strengthen their reading, writing and math skills before taking on college-level classes. Additionally, students who are the first in their families to attend college may be unfamiliar with the demands and expectations that come with college work. To assist these students in their first semester, the College is offering a three credit College Success class that incorporates strategies to increase student academic skills, better familiarize students with the college and the expectations of college, and help direct students in the pursuit and development of their personal and academic goals. In the Fall of 2010, one section of the College Success course will be offered exclusively to students in the School of Business and Information Technology.
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Academic Advising: Research shows that students who make a connection with a college faculty or staff member are more likely than other students to persist in their academic and career goals. This is especially true for students whose career goals are unclear. This initiative supports on-on-one academic advising by increasing the availability of academic advisors to General Studies students. Meeting regularly with their advisees, advisors assist students in: developing their goals; connecting with resources on campus; and achieving personal and professional success.