"Life Moves Pretty Fast": Adapting Higher Ed for Today's Students

In episode #687 of The EdUp Experience podcast, Stephanie Marken , Senior Partner at Gallup shared eye-opening insights from her organization's research on post-secondary education. If you are a higher education leader feeling like you are struggling to create change at your institution, you are not alone. From demographic cliffs to thinking about jumping off a cliff after experiencing FAFSA simplification (don't jump), the higher education landscape is full of challenges and opportunities.

I think what a lot of [students] are saying is ... I will go to this less expensive institution who offers good outcomes, maybe not as perfect outcomes as another institution, but strong outcomes because I can afford it, because I'm confident in the degree value long-term, and that's worth it.

Bueller? Bueller? Anyone?

Marken's data serves as a wake-up call for college leaders to adapt to the changing needs of students and innovate to stay relevant in an increasingly competitive market. So, put on your Ferris Bueller glasses, sit back, and let's explore the lessons higher ed can learn from Gallup's research.

Remember the classic comedy Ferris Bueller's Day Off? I know you do. While Ferris's antics were entertaining and helped to define childhoods, the film also touched on some serious themes, like the importance of engagement, innovation, and meeting students where they are. Not surprisingly, these same issues are at the heart of higher education's challenges today.

"Life Moves Pretty Fast": The Eroding Confidence in Higher Ed

Marken notes that while many Americans still believe in the value of post-secondary education, confidence in the institution has dropped significantly, particularly among conservative adults. Students increasingly view higher ed as an elite system that's inaccessible and unaffordable. Many prospective students feel left behind by the current higher education model.

A 2022 study by New America found that only 55% of Americans believe that higher education is mainly a public good, down from 62% in 2020. This shift in perception highlights the growing skepticism about the value and accessibility of post-secondary education.

"The Question Isn't 'What Are We Going to Do,' The Question Is 'What Aren't We Going to Do?'

Or, at least, this should be the question. To address concerns across the industry, Marken emphasizes the need for innovation. According to Marken, successful institutions like Western Governors University thrive because they offer flexible, affordable, and transparent pathways for students. Just as Ferris embraced new experiences and broke free from the traditional classroom, colleges must adapt to the needs of today's learners, many of whom are adult students juggling work and family responsibilities.

A 2023 report by the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center revealed that the number of post-traditional students (aged 25 and older) enrolled in college decreased by 7.6% between Fall 2019 and Fall 2022, compared to a 4.2% decline for traditional-age students. This data underscores the importance of tailoring higher education offerings to the unique needs of adult learners.

"You're Not Dying, You Just Can't Think of Anything Good to Do"

Marken also highlights the critical role of engaged faculty and staff in student retention. However, Gallup's research reveals a toxic workplace culture at many institutions, with high levels of burnout and low well-being among employees. Like the character Cameron, who felt overwhelmed by the pressure to succeed, faculty and staff struggle to find fulfillment in their work. To create a supportive environment for students, colleges must prioritize the engagement and well-being of their employees.

A 2022 survey by The Chronicle of Higher Education found that 68% of faculty members reported feeling very stressed or extremely stressed, with 38% considering leaving their positions. Addressing faculty burnout and disengagement is crucial for creating a positive learning environment and improving student outcomes. In Commencement, The Beginning of a New Era in Higher Education , my co-author Kate Colbert and I found that only 57% of higher education leaders intended to stay in their jobs over the next few years due to the pressure. Some predict the FAFSA issues will spark an exodus further emphasizing the necessity of employee care.

"Twist and Shout": Make Students Want to Dance

Gallup's research identifies the "Big Six" experiences that significantly impact student outcomes, including mentorship, internships, and deep involvement in extracurricular activities. Marken stresses that it's not where you go to college, but how you go - students who have these transformative experiences are more likely to thrive after graduation. Meaningful connections that matter are a difference maker.

A few years ago, a Gallup study found that college graduates who had a mentor during their undergraduate years were 2.2 times more likely to be engaged at work and 1.7 times more likely to be thriving in all five elements of well-being compared to those who did not have a mentor. This research highlights the long-term impact of mentorship on student success and well-being. Being mentorship isn't just for residential students, online students have to be engaged in a meaningful way as well. Engagement is about people, not modality.

Remember...

"Big Six" Experiences - Impacting Student Outcomes

According to Gallup's research, the "Big Six" experiences that significantly impact student outcomes are:

1. Having a mentor who encourages students to pursue their goals and dreams
2. Working on a project that takes a semester or more to complete
3. Participating in an internship or job that allows students to apply what they're learning in the classroom
4. Being extremely active in extracurricular activities and organizations
5. Feeling a sense of belonging and connectedness to the campus community
6. Feeling supported and cared for by professors who make them excited about learning

Gallup's studies have shown that students who have these transformative experiences during their college years are more likely to be engaged at work and thrive in their overall well-being after graduation. The "Big Six" highlights the importance of fostering meaningful connections, providing opportunities for real-world learning, and creating a supportive campus environment that nurtures student growth and success.

There you have it, YOU've just #EdUpped!

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