Engagement Is Key to Community College Success, Author Says

In a new book, one graduate details how forming relationships and getting involved is critical.

March 30, 2012 RSS Feed Print

Students do better if they make friends who will share information (Who's the best econ instructor? When are the scholarship interviews? How can I get a tutor?), Karp and colleagues found. "These networks allow students to navigate the campus environment, access knowledge about the college, create a sense of social belonging, and, ultimately, feel that there are people who care about their academic welfare."

Some community colleges are trying to create a sense of connection and community by grouping new students—particularly those who aren't well-prepared academically—in "learning communities," where students take two or three related courses together with faculty who collaborate on curriculum and assignments.

[Read more tips for community college success.]

Typically, students do better when they're part of a learning community, but the benefits fade when the program ends, several studies have shown.

Still, many agree with Adney that the secret to success is for students to engage with classmates and instructors, putting the "community" back in community college.

Joanne Jacobs writes Community College Spotlight for The Hechinger Report, an independent nonprofit education news site. Jacobs also blogs about K-12 education and is the author of Our School: The Inspiring Story of Two Teachers, One Big Idea and the Charter School That Beat the Odds.

Tags:: students,; community colleges,; University of Illinois,; Columbia University,; colleges,; education,; student engagement,; paying for college

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I have been an educator for 20 plus years. I always remember my first year as a "community college student." There was a great deal to learn and as an adult returning back to school I found it confusing. Often times there are expectations which I found difficult and need guidance. For example, writing a paper utilizing MLA style , getting assistance on writing a paper or knowing that meeting with an adviser will help you select courses that meet your graduation requirements. I was fortunate to meet fellow students who were seasoned and guided me. However, this is not always the case.
As a teacher I will never forget my start at the community college. I use my past experiences to teach and enhance my student’s future by explaining the importance of reading the syllabus and always having it available, taking the time to look at their graduation requirements and seeking out advisement. Most of my students are older adults from who like recent graduates from high school need guidance. I have found that the adult students themselves from there own learning communities and mentor others.
Gladys

Gladys of FL 10:58PM March 31, 2012

Along with engagement for community college success is connection. Connecting with instructors, advisers and other staff that can assist students with navigating the academic and non-academic processes of college can make life much easier for first-generation college students.
Another important key is to enroll in a college orientation or college skills course to familiarize yourself with how the college functions. This is invaluable, especially during the first or second semester of enrollment. Great article.
http://www.hermallencoaching.com

Herm Allen of SC 5:51PM March 30, 2012

I completely agree with everything you have to say! Having been an adjunct professor at a community college I saw all of these students (and a lot who were ESL students working to get an education and trying to keep learning English). Engagement is so important and so are instructors who understand that college is intimidating and work to address those needs.
Part of my mission was to teach students of all stripes how to be COLLEGE students. It's an important difference and teaching it is a balance of understanding and tough love (you don't do the work, you will fail. That's it. It's not high school).
Thanks for a great article.

meredyth byrd of TX 1:02PM March 30, 2012