Breaking the Mold: Supporting Non-Traditional Students in Higher Education

Navigating Unique Pathways at UNC Charlotte

In this episode of the Orientation Matters podcast, host David Morales sits down with Dr. Dennis Wiese to explore the evolving landscape of higher education, particularly focusing on the challenges and opportunities faced by non-traditional students. This conversation is a timely examination of how institutions like the University of North Carolina at Charlotte can adapt to better support a diverse student body, leveraging lessons from the pandemic, technology, and innovative onboarding processes.

Recognizing Individuality and Reducing Barriers

Dr. Dennis Wiese emphasizes the necessity of acknowledging the individuality of students in the educational process. Non-traditional students, defined as those over the age of 24, transfer students, parents, veterans, and international students, bring varied experiences and needs to the table. Dr. Wiese highlights the importance of reflecting on the lessons learned from the pandemic, particularly the need for intentional support tailored to these unique populations.

Institutions must be mindful of the transition experience for non-traditional students and engage their support networks effectively. This means facilitating student engagement in a holistic way, rather than focusing on specific components of publications. By providing appropriate extracurricular spaces like clubs and organizations that accommodate the schedules of non-traditional students, universities can create a supportive environment that fosters success for all.

Personalized Onboarding and Technological Integration

A significant part of the discussion focuses on the personalization of the onboarding experience in higher education. Dr. Wiese suggests that just as platforms like Amazon and TikTok personalize their user experience, higher education institutions can utilize technology to offer tailored information and support to different student demographics. Personalized onboarding can include the use of data and pre-advising systems to create seamless transitions and support networks for students.

David Morales adds that enhancing the advising and pre-orientation process by leveraging data analytics can significantly improve customer service and content delivery. The goal is to prevent student poaching through effective engagement and a well-rounded supporter platform, ultimately aiming for higher retention rates.

Building a Welcoming Environment

Creating a supportive and welcoming environment for non-traditional students benefits the entire student body. Dr. Wiese advocates for convenience, clear pathways, and a logical progression in coursework that can lead to better outcomes for all students. By using inclusive language and integrating the voices and stories of non-traditional students into the broader narrative of the higher education community, institutions can foster a sense of belonging.

The continuity of messaging and the establishment of peer relationships are crucial in supporting non-traditional students throughout their academic journey. Additionally, acknowledging the financial interests and advocacy roles of family members or supporters can enhance the level of institutional support for students, making for a more holistic approach to education.

A Strategic and Comprehensive Approach to Onboarding

Dr. Wiese and his collaborator Emily Wheeler have developed a theoretical framework for systematic student onboarding, termed a heuristic. This model is designed to support the cultural acquisition and transition processes of students, encompassing three key components: Prepare, Process, and Perform. This framework emphasizes holistic student development through a periodized approach, addressing the various decision points and break points that students encounter during their academic journey.

The importance of using technology to support these processes cannot be overstated. From pre-admission to post-graduation, technology plays a critical role in providing a seamless and supportive experience for students. David Morales highlights how data analysis and trigger points can create niche pathways, further personalizing and enhancing the student experience.

Redefining Success in Higher Education

The conversation culminates with a reflection on the broader implications of these initiatives. Dr. Wiese illustrates the shifts in higher education post-World War II from an elitist model to one of inclusivity. Despite this progress, there is a need to redefine what it means to be a successful student and address systematic biases that hinder access and progression.

The economic and enrollment growth potential of catering to non-traditional students is significant. Institutions need to create clear and structured pathways that accommodate the diverse needs of non-traditional students, whether it be through flexible course scheduling or providing access to essential services like childcare.

Conclusion: Embracing Inclusivity for Future Success

As Dr. Dennis Wiese and David Morales stress, embracing the needs of non-traditional students is not just an option but a necessity for the future success of higher education institutions. With a strategic, technologically empowered, and inclusive approach, universities can break the mold and create environments where all students can thrive.

By listening to the voices and stories of non-traditional students and intentionally redesigning educational pathways, institutions can ensure they are not only meeting the needs of today’s students but also preparing for the challenges of tomorrow. Join us on GoVZO.com as we continue to delve into these critical discussions, providing insights and strategies from experts in the field of higher education.