登录查看更多内容

How can you address the unique needs of non-traditional students in admissions?

由人工智能和领英社区提供技术支持

Non-traditional students are those who do not follow the typical path of enrolling in college right after high school, or who have characteristics that differ from the majority of college students, such as being older, working full-time, having family responsibilities, or having prior learning experiences. These students have unique needs and challenges that require special attention and support from educational leaders in admissions. In this article, you will learn how you can address these needs and create a more inclusive and diverse learning environment for non-traditional students.

此文章中的业界达人

由社区从 5 条内容中精选。了解更多

1 Recognize the diversity of non-traditional students

The first step to addressing the needs of non-traditional students is to recognize that they are not a homogeneous group, but rather a diverse and complex population with different backgrounds, goals, motivations, and barriers. You need to understand the specific characteristics and preferences of your target audience, and tailor your admissions strategies accordingly. For example, you might segment your non-traditional students based on their age, educational level, work status, family situation, or learning style, and design different outreach, communication, and application methods for each segment.

添加您的观点

Tania Roquette
举报内容
Nowadays, universities must recognise and address the unique needs of non-traditional students which requires a tailored approach that acknowledges their diverse backgrounds, experiences, and circumstances.

已翻译

赞

2 Provide flexible and accessible admissions options

Non-traditional students often face time and financial constraints that limit their ability to enroll in traditional college programs. You can address these challenges by providing flexible and accessible admissions options that suit their needs and circumstances. For example, you might offer online or hybrid courses, accelerated or modular programs, multiple start dates, rolling admissions, or credit for prior learning. You might also reduce or waive some of the admissions requirements, such as standardized tests, transcripts, or essays, that might discourage or disadvantage non-traditional students.

添加您的观点

Tania Roquette
举报内容
It is key to provide a flexible online application portal with useful information about study options and ideally offer flexible program formats where the student can choose its modules, pace of study and learning options. Non-traditional students may also face unique financial challenges so it is important to providing information about available financial aid options, scholarships specifically targeted towards adult learners, tuition reimbursement programs, and flexible payment plans that can help alleviate financial barriers and make education more accessible.

已翻译

赞

3 Offer personalized and holistic admissions support

Non-traditional students may lack the confidence, information, or guidance to navigate the admissions process successfully. You can address these issues by offering personalized and holistic admissions support that helps them overcome their doubts and challenges. For example, you might assign a dedicated admissions counselor, mentor, or coach to each non-traditional student, who can provide them with individualized advice, feedback, and encouragement. You might also create a comprehensive and user-friendly admissions website, portal, or app that provides clear and relevant information, resources, and tools for non-traditional students.

添加您的观点

Jami Black

Director of Admissions at Alzar
举报内容
I see a clear change in the admissions process and the requirements of admissions team from a pre and post pandemic lens. In the height of the confusion of the school closures, hybrid learning, and day-to-day uncertainty the value in taking the time to have phone calls, online video calls, and overall a need for a highly personalized admissions process became very clear. Now, as we move away from the pandemic, I have seen that it is still incredibly important to have a high-touch and personalized admissions process. As an admissions team, we have reset the standards of the numbers of connections we have with our applicants and their families which I have seen allow for a much smoother and more enjoyable admissions process for all involved.

已翻译

赞
Tania Roquette
举报内容
Non-traditional students may require additional support to navigate the admissions process. Offering personalised advising, dedicated admissions support, and additional resources tailored to their needs can help these students navigate the admissions process successfully.

已翻译

赞

4 Engage and collaborate with internal and external stakeholders

Non-traditional students may have multiple and competing roles and responsibilities that affect their decision to enroll in college. You can address these factors by engaging and collaborating with internal and external stakeholders who can influence and support their educational journey. For example, you might partner with employers, community organizations, or alumni who can provide non-traditional students with career opportunities, financial assistance, or mentoring. You might also involve faculty, staff, or current students who can share their experiences, insights, or testimonials with non-traditional students.

添加您的观点

5 Foster a culture of diversity and inclusion

Non-traditional students may feel isolated, marginalized, or unwelcome in a college environment that is dominated by traditional students. You can address these feelings by fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion that values and respects the contributions and perspectives of non-traditional students. For example, you might showcase the stories, achievements, or feedback of non-traditional students in your admissions materials, website, or social media. You might also create or support affinity groups, networks, or events that connect and empower non-traditional students.

添加您的观点

6 Evaluate and improve your admissions practices

Non-traditional students are a dynamic and evolving population that requires continuous monitoring and improvement of your admissions practices. You can address this need by evaluating and improving your admissions strategies and outcomes on a regular basis. For example, you might collect and analyze data on the enrollment, retention, and satisfaction of non-traditional students, and identify the gaps, strengths, or areas for improvement. You might also solicit and act on the feedback, suggestions, or complaints of non-traditional students, and implement changes or innovations that enhance their admissions experience.

添加您的观点

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

添加您的观点

Arjita A. Sethi

Advising Unconventional Entrepreneurs at New Founder School | Bringing Wellness and Joy to Busy Professionals at Shaanti | Professor of entrepreneurship and business management
举报内容
Consider implementing a streamlined application process specifically tailored to non-traditional students. Simplifying the application requirements and procedures can reduce barriers and make the admissions process more accessible. Moreover, offer alternative pathways to admission, such as credit for prior learning, work experience, or military service. Recognizing the diverse backgrounds and skills of non-traditional students can help create more inclusive admissions criteria. Furthermore, provide mentorship or peer support programs where non-traditional students can connect with others who have similar experiences. Peer support can offer invaluable guidance and encouragement throughout the admissions journey.

已翻译

赞

Educational Leadership

+ 关注

给文章评分

我们借助人工智能创建了此文章。您认为这篇文章怎么样？

很棒不太好

举报此文章

查看全部

How can you address the unique needs of non-traditional students in admissions?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Recognize the diversity of non-traditional students

2 Provide flexible and accessible admissions options

3 Offer personalized and holistic admissions support

4 Engage and collaborate with internal and external stakeholders

5 Foster a culture of diversity and inclusion

6 Evaluate and improve your admissions practices

7 Here’s what else to consider

Educational Leadership

给文章评分

感谢您的反馈

更多Educational Leadership相关文章

更多相关阅读内容

How can you address the unique needs of non-traditional students in admissions?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Recognize the diversity of non-traditional students

2 Provide flexible and accessible admissions options

3 Offer personalized and holistic admissions support

4 Engage and collaborate with internal and external stakeholders

5 Foster a culture of diversity and inclusion

6 Evaluate and improve your admissions practices

7 Here’s what else to consider

Educational Leadership

给文章评分

感谢您的反馈

查看其他技能