While about one-third of high school students with autism now enroll in college, they are much less likely than other students, both with and without (other) disabilities, to graduate from college, national research has shown. California Lutheran University's Spectrum of Opportunity Conference offers perspectives from college students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and professionals who work […]
Above-normal humidity across the East this summer caused mold problems in residence halls at several colleges and universities. In many cases, students moved to hotels and other lodgings while crews cleaned the dorms, though no serious illnesses have been reported. At Southern Maine Community College in August, a malfunctioning energy recovery unit failed to dehumidify […]
Campuses, like businesses, are feeling the effects of Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh's confirmation hearings. Some prefer to call them another example of the power of the #MeToo movement. Whatever the name, the Kavanaugh "news peg" is not over. This piece focuses on some impacts of those hearings, as well as selected strategies administrators can […]
Claims data can provide a wealth of knowledge—if you know where to look. To start, be sure to keep your eye on these four data points that can help identify costly problems or student trends that need addressing. Determine whether atypical large claims are derailing your plan Review the section of your claims report that […]
It turns out that a key factor in students finishing college is their experience during the very start of college, from the moment they send their deposit through freshman orientation. Institutions find that switching the focus of orientation to fostering campus connections boosts student engagement, and research links student connectedness to retention. So at many […]
For higher ed institutions considering restructuring their general education curriculum, administrators suggest they involve the faculty in the process from the start. "People need to communicate in a completely transparent way with all the stakeholders," says Cora Randall, professor of atmospheric and oceanic sciences, and chair of the general education implementation committee at the University […]
While a college's general education curriculum touches every student, officials may go many years without touching those requirements in any significant way. In fact, some institutions are still using general ed programs developed between 20 and 30 years ago, before the digital revolution transformed the lives of students. "There's a sense of urgency in addressing some […]
Every election season, hopeful candidates pitch various plans to make college affordable for everyone. And in the past few years, dozens of states, localities and schools have proposed free college policies sometimes known as "promise programs." However, these initiatives often set strict requirements that exclude many students who need the most assistance. Jennifer Mishory, a […]
Why most colleges are only experimenting: Determining the technology's value "I think the best thing to do in higher ed is to pilot, experiment and be aware of the technology, so that if it becomes mainstream and takes off, you're ready," says Brian Rellinger, associate provost for academic support at Ohio Wesleyan University. Rellinger began […]
