Journal of Instructional Research’s Post

Having once dreamt of becoming an actual catalyst not only for the betterment of our society by way of the pen but also through the lens, my belief is that the real question that needs to be investigated is what percentage of students who do not obtain bachelor's degrees do so as a result of gaining equitable employment. Padding four-year institutes is not a worthwhile endeavor in and of itself when, after all, the whole point of getting a degree is to increase your knowledge base to thereby increase earning potential. Considering many with a PhD, MS, BS, all the way down to AAs as well as middle schoolers alike seem equally likely to be of the belief that I've obtained a high-level education--and usually assume I possess degrees as proof of my ability to learn/retain information--I hate this article's undertones. Furthermore, as a child who loves learning will oftentimes become an adult who likewise possesses a love of learning, assuming that a four-year degree will at any point somehow truly serve as a direct indicator of anything more than knowing how to game the system--or simply follow directions--seems asinine. In my humble opinion, intelligence and grit are the core components of our global economy's backbone. As those are not skills any educator can do more than merely aspire to inspire in a student, this article skirts any real issue. #NoStats #NoNews #WordSoup

University and College Difference University and College: Understanding the Difference University and college are two important institutions in higher education, each offering different learning experiences. Here are the key differences between these two institutions: Academic Diversity and Accreditation: Universities typically offer a wider range of academic programs, including undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees. Colleges may focus on more specific programs and often offer a limited number of undergraduate programs. Universities are research-oriented and prioritize graduate studies. Size and Student Population: Universities often have larger student populations. They may accommodate thousands or even tens of thousands of students. Colleges, on the other hand, tend to have smaller class sizes and a more intimate learning environment. Campus Life and Lifestyle: Universities usually have expansive campuses with a variety of amenities, offering students a wide range of social and extracurricular activities. Colleges may have smaller, more compact campuses, providing a more concentrated academic environment. Cost and Affordability: Colleges are generally smaller institutions and may be more affordable compared to universities. However, this may vary depen...

In #NeededNowLT article, Professor Mahsood Shah, Dean of Swinburne Sydney, presents a comparison between first-year and final-year students using data from the Student Experience Survey (SES). The analysis shows that final-year students are less satisfied than first-year students. The article highlights the necessity for higher education institutions to expand their focus beyond the first-year student experience to maintain positive learning experiences throughout subsequent years. Find the link to the article here 🌐https://bit.ly/48wWhjU Professor Mahsood Shah I PhD

My blog for today is to highlight the misguided notion that a college education is not necessary. I look forward to your thoughts. https://lnkd.in/eteB-jvu

Breaking Down Barriers: Innovative Solutions for Transfer Student Success Are you aware that transfer students face numerous challenges when transitioning from community colleges to universities? A recent article highlights compelling strategies institutions implement to promote transfer student success. One particularly intriguing solution involves creating two-year degree programs at universities, such as the Fairfield Bellarmine two-year degree program. This initiative offers low-income students significantly discounted tuition rates as they complete their associate degrees, providing a transfer pathway to four-year institutions. By addressing financial barriers and facilitating a smooth transition, these programs empower students to achieve their academic goals. Join the discussion to explore these innovative solutions and share your thoughts on breaking down barriers to transfer student success! #TransferStudentSuccess #HigherEducation #Innovation

Navigating the Benefits of Dual Enrollment Programs: A Pathway to Academic Success The traditional pathways to success are continuously evolving. Dual enrollment programs have emerged as a dynamic option, offering students a bridge between high school and college. These programs, often overlooked or misunderstood, hold immense potential to reshape the educational landscape and empower students on their journey toward academic and professional fulfillment. Dual enrollment programs, also known as concurrent enrollment or dual credit programs, allow high school students to enroll in college-level courses and earn credits that count towards both their high school diploma and future college degrees. This innovative approach enables students to experience college-level rigor while still in high school, providing a preview of the academic challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. This is one of the opportunities for students to explore diverse academic interests beyond the confines of their high school curriculum. Whether delving into advanced mathematics, literature, sciences, or humanities, students can engage with subjects that captivate their curiosity and passion, fostering intellectual growth and personal development. Moreover, dual enrollment fosters a culture of academic ambition by exposing students to the rigors of college coursework. By challenging themselves in a college environment, students cultivate essential skills such as critical thinking, time management, and self-discipline, setting a solid foundation for future academic endeavors. Dual enrollment programs represent a paradigm shift in education, offering students a transformative pathway to academic success and personal growth. By bridging the gap between high school and college, these programs empower students to explore their passions, accelerate their progress, and overcome barriers to achievement. As we navigate the complexities of the modern educational landscape, let us embrace the potential of dual enrollment programs to unlock new opportunities and expand horizons for generations to come. TalentServe #talentserve #dualenrolmentprograms #learning

Meeting Expectations of Incoming University Students At the time of year when hundreds of thousands of new students enter our Universities to embark on a course of study (and for many of them a career), put aside some time to reflect on what their expectations might be and how academic institutions need to respond. Perhaps, rather than academic institutions responding per se to expectations we can play a significant role in establishing what those expectations might be and ensuring a role as a major player in shaping careers for our graduates. Many commencing undergraduate students will not yet have shaped their expectations as they might not have had much exposure to a higher education environment nor had strong role models in this regard. Let’s ensure that these students do not get lost in what can be a complex higher education environment. Short of a one-on-one concierge-type model we should have ways of engaging with students from the time of their enrolment, through those (at times) challenging first few weeks of University study, and then as they transition to more advanced aspects of their course of study and then graduate. We should not lose sight of any student – we must understand the student journey for each of our students and embrace the differences that will be presented. For many, expectations will be around graduating and progressing into a career in a pre-decided discipline. For others, expectations will be around higher learning as a way of deciding what sort of career they would like to pursue. As academics and higher education institutions we are beholden to ensure that we support and help guide these journeys. Exposing students to the best in industry and community, exposing students to the best of our learning and teaching staff, exposing students to the research that supports the learning they are undertaking, allowing students to have input into curriculum and finding solutions to local and global issues, and allowing students the flexibility they need to reach their goals are all imperative. If you think that is plenty to do, spare a thought for those who may not know how to engage in these opportunities – identify them early and support their efforts to maximise their experience. A student will never forget that person who went out of their way to positively influence their academic journey. While all Universities will say they can tick off each of these aspects of a student journey, why then do so many students leave University part-way through their studies somewhat disillusioned. At this time of the year, as we are preparing for that major life event for so many students (i.e., starting their University studies), take some time to reflect on what you will do to ensure your contribution to our future generation of leaders and professionals.

University vs. College: ✅Size and Scope: Universities are generally larger institutions offering a wider range of academic programs, including undergraduate degrees (bachelor’s) and postgraduate degrees (master’s and Ph.D.s). Colleges, on the other hand, tend to be smaller and focus primarily on undergraduate education. ✅Focus:Universities often have a strong emphasis on research alongside teaching. This means they may have extensive research facilities and faculty actively involved in groundbreaking work. Colleges typically prioritize undergraduate teaching, fostering a more close-knit learning environment with smaller class sizes. ✅Programs: With their broader scope, universities offer a vast array of programs across various disciplines. Colleges, while offering a good selection, may specialize in specific areas like liberal arts, community college programs, or technical training. Which is right for me? ✅Consider your program: If you have a specific postgraduate program in mind, a university is your only option. For undergraduate studies, both colleges and universities can be great choices. ✅Learning style: Do you thrive in smaller, discussion-based classes, or prefer the vastness and diverse offerings of a university? Colleges provide a more intimate feel, while universities offer a wider range of classmates and experiences. ✅Budget: Public universities can be more affordable for international students compared to private universities. Community colleges are generally the most budget-friendly option. Remember, the best choice depends on your individual needs and goals. Research both colleges and universities that align with your academic interests and preferred learning environment. TheBullsquad is here to guide you. #travel #study #university #college

College Consortiums Bring More Opportunities When colleges and universities collaborate to share resources, students have expanded educational opportunities.  College consortiums are partnerships in which two or more institutions offer their resources (such as classes, labs, and library materials) to students from all of the institutions at no extra cost. Students benefit from having access to more courses for academic exploration and opportunities to add areas of specialization or new concentrations. If their home college doesn’t have a course in a subject of interest, but another college in the consortium does, they can cross-register for that course while taking their other courses at their home college. I visited several colleges in The Greater Greensboro Consortium in Greensboro, NC and found that the institutions represented a wide array of different academic offerings and settings.  Eight institutions in the area, including Bennett College, Elon University, Greensboro College, Guilford College (pictured), Guilford Technical Community College, High Point University, North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University and the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, participate in this consortium to serve degree-seeking students in the fall and spring semesters. There are, of course, rules that students must follow - like restrictions on the number of cross-registered courses that can be taken in each academic term and the total consortium credits that can count toward a degree. Certainly there are logistics to work out related to traveling to another campus and how the credits may or may not count toward the student’s major or other academic criteria.  However, thousands of students take advantage of college consortiums regularly.  For prospective students deciding between colleges and universities of interest, the expanded offerings available through a college consortium may be a good balance to a smaller, more personalized college with reduced class sizes but fewer academic subject offerings. There is a lot to consider when selecting a college and learning about the unique programs offered can be very helpful. Confident College Planning guides students and families in the process of finding colleges which best meet their personal needs and interests so that the student will be most successful. Our services include planning discussions for exploring majors, making college lists and college visits, and individualized attention for essay editing, application review and tracking, scholarship research, and funding strategies. Contact me at nancy@confidentcollegeplanning.com for a discussion on what I can do for you! #collegeadmissions #collegesanduniversities https://lnkd.in/eHP4wteV

A second enrollment cliff is coming, and now new data reveals a concerning lack of academic preparation for incoming college students. How will higher education institutions respond? The answer is clear: preparation for learning gaps is necessary, and stronger support is needed to help students achieve college expectations. Academic advising and mentors could be vital solutions. Proactive planning and response will make a difference for our students. Let's work together to ensure their success.