DE Oracle @ UMUC

Responding to Undergraduate Students' Needs: The Department of Academic Success

Justin Edgar

Learning Coach, Department of Academic Success

Other

Published: May-June 2007

Category: » University-showcase » Classes-programs

As UMUC has evolved to maintain its status as one of the world's top non-traditional universities, there have been many new and exciting additions made to assist our students in the School of Undergraduate Studies (SUS). One of these additions is the Department of Academic Success (DAS). Developed in 2005, DAS was created to improve student retention by offering a variety of resources that enhance student success. DAS offers programs and resources such as online student clubs, online mentoring, online tutoring, and general study skills assistance.

One of the most exciting resources is the virtual online student clubs and honor societies. These clubs are used as a forum for UMUC students to converse with each other and learn more about the academic and professional aspects in their fields of study. The student clubs are based within a WebTycho classroom with the majority having a 900 designation (commonly referred to as the 900 clubs). Students can communicate with each other, access resources related to their major, view professional materials such as job postings, and participate in official UMUC and other professional organizations. Instructors become involved in the student clubs by volunteering to serve as a faculty facilitator or guest speaker. Faculty facilitators assist by posting new resources, answering student questions, and developing new ideas for the clubs success. Guest speakers post a special conference for a period of one to two weeks and answer student postings related to the topic covered in the conference.

While there are a multitude of positive features related to the student clubs, there are a few drawbacks. Although the clubs have proven to be effective, WebTycho has its limitations, such as the time-consuming nature of manually rostering (adding and removing individuals to the classes). Also, it has been a challenge to provide interesting and current content for the clubs on a consistent basis. However, providing fresh and new information could be easily resolved with greater participation of faculty and student facilitators within the clubs.

DAS also offers online mentoring and tutoring for students. The Allies alumni mentors and discipline-specific mentoring programs assist first semester UMUC students. These voluntary programs are free and there is no grade associated with participation. Mentors assist mentees in adjusting to UMUC and improving their skills so that they may achieve academic success. In addition, tutors are available for a select number of high-enrollment entry courses through a special online WebTycho classroom (please note that tutors are not available for all courses). Students can post questions, at their convenience, throughout the term and a tutor will respond. Also, students are able to read responses posted to classmates’ questions.

Students can also receive general assistance from DAS. The department staff assists students that are having difficulties ranging from adjusting to online learning to time management to study skills. Instructors can refer students who are having troubles balancing their personal obligations and classes as well as students that have general difficulties related to study skills and time management to consider getting help from DAS.

SUS's Department of Academic Success continues to develop new programs and resources as the needs of UMUC students are brought to the forefront. As part of this development it is not only important for instructors to advertise the department's resources to their students, but also let us know their ideas and feedback. For all referrals and feedback, DAS can be reached through academicsuccess@umuc.edu.