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Defining Student Success
For some students, "success"
is simply graduating from a two or four-year college. A college or
university might have a very different view as to what constitutes a
successful student. An inclusive definition of student success would
include the following qualities: Student Retention and Program
Completion, Increased Quality of Student Learning, Producing Capable
People (not just Graduates), and Student Success = Institution
Success. Below are some specific goals that make this
achievement possible.
 
Student
retention and program completion
Underprepared students are provided with
a strong foundation. They emerge more ready than peers who have had
no similar opportunity.
A high percentage of students persist to reach each
milestone.
Students start school and stay there.
Many students transfer from community colleges to
four-year colleges.
A high percentage of students graduate, and a high
percentage graduate on time.
Increasing
the quality of student learning
Student learning is rigorous and
meaningful. Students meet high expectations and gain diverse work
experiences as they learn.
Students gain transferable learning
skills.
Students have well-developed life
visions and learning plans.
Students can practice reflection and
self-assessment effectively. They use these skills to promote their
continued growth beyond school.
Students are lifelong learners. They
want to learn on their own and they have the skills to do it.
Producing
effective people, not just graduates
Students resemble the signature profile established by the
institution.
Students engage in institutional activities.
A high number of graduates are placed in preferred jobs,
professional schools, and graduate programs.
Students and graduates are strong contributors to society.
Graduates become professional leaders.
Graduates become international citizens who are competitive in the
global marketplace.
Student
success = Institutional success
The institution’s reputation increases.
Colleges receive more applications and their enrollment increases. |
