by Angela Young
Dr. Jillian Kinzie of Indiana University is the Associate Director of the Center for Postsecondary Research & National Survey of Student Engagement (NSSE) Institute. She was invited to campus to discuss her expertise gained from years of involvement with academic surveys that seek to reach the heart of what students are truly experiencing.
Dr. Kinzie met with over 50 academic leaders from across campus during her visit to Missouri State in February and provided great insight for conversations based on student retention, perseverance, and support.
These conversations were a great opportunity for campus leaders to gather in a common area and have critical discussions. Faculty’s desire for high levels of student learning and success were the basis of discussions throughout the day.
Some topics raised by your colleagues included:
- Long-term learning
- Incoming skill set
- Student ownership of education
- Work/leisure balance
- Needs of transfer students
So what are the next steps to ensure that these conversations continue?
Data from BCSSE* and NSSE** paired with the topics of discussion mentioned above can provide critical indicators and form a starting point for critical conversations. These conversations can help unify our ideas about what is important in student learning, and get us thinking about the next steps.
The Office of Assessment is willing to help bring these conversations to your college or department.
*BCSSE (Beginning College Survey of Student Engagement) provides important information about student thinking and preparation before they enter as first-year students.
**NSSE (National Survey of Student Engagement) provides direct feedback from students at the end of their first year and seniors.