How can academic advisors be trained to provide high-quality student support?

Advisors do not need training, per se, they are chosen based on proven experience and insights.But they do need feedback, here perhaps, training in modern methods of data interpretation using feature vectors,statistical dashboards,SEM would be helpful. Cheers

Analyze data on student performance, retention rates, graduation rates, and other relevant metrics. Look for patterns or trends that might indicate areas where the advising system is falling short. Compare the institution's advising practices with those of peer institutions that can highlight areas where the system may be lagging and provide ideas for improvement. Collect detailed feedback from the advisors themselves who can provide insights into the challenges they face, the tools they need, and the support they require to be more effective. Additionally, encourage self-assessment among advisors to identify personal areas for growth and development.

In today's dynamic educational landscape, empowering academic advisors is pivotal for enhanced student support. Training programs should blend theoretical knowledge with practical skills, fostering empathy and effective communication. Incorporating technology is essential, enabling advisors to navigate diverse student needs efficiently. Continuous professional development, mentorship, and exposure to real-world scenarios will sharpen their problem-solving abilities. Emphasizing cultural competency ensures advisors connect with students from various backgrounds.

Beyond the classroom, you, as a teacher, can equip students for high-quality academic advice. Encourage open communication, introduce key academic concepts, guide goal-setting, and share career insights. By empowering students and familiarizing them with campus resources, you prepare them for proactive and productive advising sessions. Though not the advisor, you play a crucial role in building their "advising readiness" for a successful academic journey.

In my current project that looks at supporting students through advising learning communities, what has been significant for the project's success especially since establishing it in 2022 was creating a clear alignment between the curriculum, pedagogy, and learning outcomes/objectives (as advised by NACADA). Being very specific and practical about your curriculum (and what you are going to teach students) as an advisor allows you to have specific learning outcomes for your practice. This process is not easy, but I always suggest reading, gathering your literature, and having a theoretical lens guiding your work. Be intentional, and things will fall into place.

There are multiple ways to deliver training content, including coaching, case studies, role-playing, webinars, and so on. To be effective, training programs must be well planned and must deliver the knowledge that academic advisors actually need.

En mi experiencia la labor de orientación escolar es muy exigente anímicamente y es una de las profesiones con más riesgo de burnout según los estudios, por este motivo el acompañamiento, el sostén emocional y la formación en gestión de nuestras propias emociones resultan claves para estos profesionales. Todo programa formativo dirigido a profesionales de la orientación debería de contar con mecanismos de apoyo mutuo, intervisión, supervisión, prácticas saludables u otras herramientas o conocimientos que nos permitan asegurar la salud de estos profesionales.

Training academic advisors involves a three-fold approach: knowledge, skills, and empathy. Think of it like crafting the perfect cup of coffee. Advisors need quality "beans" – staying updated on academic info through workshops and resources. The brewing process involves practical skills – listening, problem-solving, and personalizing advice, similar to a barista customizing coffee. The personal touch, like adding a sprinkle of cinnamon, is empathy. Advisors should connect with students, understanding their challenges. Training should incorporate anecdotes to inspire advisors, ensuring they serve a perfect "cup" of student support.