Active Learning

Active learning is an educational approach or instructional strategy that engages students in the learning process by requiring them to participate actively in various tasks and activities. Unlike traditional passive learning, where students are passive recipients of information, active learning encourages students to take an active role in their learning, often through activities like discussions, problem-solving, group work, hands-on experiences, or other interactive methods. This approach is designed to promote critical thinking, deeper understanding, and long-term retention of information, as students are encouraged to apply what they’ve learned, ask questions, and interact with both the content and their peers. Active learning can occur in various educational settings, from classrooms to online courses, and it can encompass a wide range of strategies and techniques to foster active student engagement.

Table of Contents

The importance of active learning

Active learning holds significant importance in the field of education for several reasons:

Improved Learning Outcomes: Active learning strategies have been shown to enhance students’ understanding and retention of course material. When students engage with the content through various activities, they are more likely to remember and apply what they’ve learned.
Critical Thinking Development: Active learning encourages students to think critically and analytically. By solving problems, discussing concepts, and applying knowledge, students develop the skills necessary for deeper understanding and real-world problem-solving.
Increased Student Engagement: Active learning methods make learning more engaging and interactive. This increased engagement can motivate students, making them more invested in their education and reducing boredom or disinterest.
Individualized Learning: Active learning can be tailored to meet the diverse needs and learning styles of students. This personalization allows for a more inclusive and effective educational experience.
Collaboration and Communication Skills: Many active learning activities, such as group work and discussions, foster collaboration and communication skills. These are essential for success in both academic and professional settings.
Preparation for Real-World Challenges: Active learning mirrors real-world scenarios where individuals must apply knowledge, work in teams, and think critically. It prepares students for the challenges they will face in their future careers.
Enhanced Motivation: When students are actively involved in their learning, they often feel a sense of ownership and accomplishment. This can boost motivation and self-confidence, leading to a positive attitude toward education.
Retention of Knowledge: Active learning promotes deeper learning, which results in better knowledge retention. Students are more likely to remember and apply what they’ve learned in the long term.
Adaptation to Changing Pedagogical Trends: As education evolves, active learning methods are adaptable and can incorporate emerging technologies and teaching approaches. This flexibility ensures that students receive relevant and effective instruction.
Enhanced Student-Teacher Relationships: Active learning fosters a more interactive relationship between students and educators. Teachers can better understand their students’ needs, provide timely feedback, and tailor instruction accordingly.

In sum, active learning is essential for creating effective, engaging, and adaptable educational experiences that prepare students for success in the modern world. It promotes critical thinking, communication skills, and motivation, while also increasing knowledge retention and adaptability to evolving educational practices.

Group Work

Group work is a collaborative learning strategy that involves students working together in small groups to achieve a common academic goal or complete a specific task. It is an important component of active learning and can take various forms, such as group discussions, projects, problem-solving activities, and more. Here are some key aspects of group work:

Benefits of Group Work:

Enhanced Learning: Group work allows students to learn from each other, share different perspectives, and gain a deeper understanding of the subject matter.
Improved Communication Skills: Working in groups encourages students to express their ideas, listen to others, and communicate effectively.
Development of Critical Thinking: Group discussions and problem-solving activities promote critical thinking and analytical skills.
Social Skills: Students develop teamwork and interpersonal skills, which are valuable in both academic and professional settings.
Diverse Perspectives: Groups often consist of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences, leading to a broader range of ideas and solutions.
Time Management: Collaborative projects help students manage their time effectively as they work on shared deadlines.

Strategies for Effective Group Work:

Clear Goals: Clearly define the purpose and objectives of the group work activity.
Role Assignment: Assign specific roles or responsibilities to each group member to ensure equal participation.
Effective Group Size: Smaller groups (3-5 members) often work more efficiently than larger ones.
Regular Feedback: Encourage students to provide feedback to their group members and receive feedback constructively.
Deadlines: Set clear timelines and milestones for the group project to keep everyone on track.
Peer Evaluation: Consider peer evaluations to assess individual contributions and ensure fairness.

Real-World Examples of Successful Group Work:

Business Teams: In the business world, team projects and collaborations are common, as employees often need to work together to achieve organizational goals.
Scientific Research: Scientific research frequently involves collaboration among researchers, each contributing their expertise to a common project.
Community Service: Group work is essential in community service projects, where individuals come together to address local issues.
Arts and Creative Projects: Many creative endeavors, such as filmmaking, theater productions, and art installations, rely on the collective efforts of a team.
Medical Teams: Healthcare professionals often work in interdisciplinary teams to provide the best care to patients.

In educational settings, group work is an effective way to engage students, encourage active participation, and promote cooperative learning. However, successful group work requires careful planning and guidance to ensure that students achieve their learning objectives while developing important social and cognitive skills.

Problem-Based Learning (PBL)

Problem-Based Learning (PBL) is an active learning approach that emphasizes the development of critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and self-directed learning. In PBL, students engage in solving complex, real-world problems or scenarios to gain a deeper understanding of the subject matter. Here are the key features and components of Problem-Based Learning:

Key Features of Problem-Based Learning:

Authentic Problems: PBL presents students with real-world, open-ended, and ill-structured problems or scenarios that require critical thinking and research to solve.
Student-Centered: PBL shifts the focus from the teacher as the primary source of knowledge to the students, who take on a more active role in their learning.
Collaborative Learning: Students typically work in small groups to collectively tackle the problem, fostering teamwork and communication skills.
Inquiry and Research: PBL encourages students to seek information, conduct research, and self-direct their learning to find solutions to the problem.
Reflection: PBL often includes structured opportunities for students to reflect on their learning process, problem-solving strategies, and the application of knowledge.

Steps in Implementing PBL:

Problem Introduction: Students are presented with a real-world problem or scenario that is both challenging and relevant to the course content.
Problem Analysis: Students work in groups to analyze the problem, identify what they know and what they need to know, and generate questions to guide their research.
Research and Self-Directed Learning: Students engage in independent research and study to gather relevant information and resources to address the problem.
Group Discussion: Groups meet to discuss their findings, share insights, and collaborate on potential solutions.
Solution Development: Students work together to propose solutions, develop action plans, and justify their recommendations based on the information they’ve gathered.
Presentation and Evaluation: Groups present their solutions to the class, and the class, along with the instructor, evaluates the quality of the solutions and the group’s presentation.
Reflective Learning: Students reflect on the entire process, the knowledge they’ve gained, and the problem-solving skills they’ve developed.

Case Studies Demonstrating PBL Efficacy:

Medical Education: PBL is widely used in medical schools to train future doctors. Students work on patient cases, researching symptoms, diagnoses, and treatment options.
Engineering: Engineering courses often use PBL to challenge students with real engineering problems, such as designing solutions for sustainability or addressing technical challenges.
Business and Management: PBL can be applied in business schools, where students analyze complex business cases, develop strategies, and present recommendations.
Environmental Studies: PBL can be used to explore environmental issues, where students research and propose solutions for sustainability and conservation challenges.
Language Learning: In language courses, PBL can involve real-world language scenarios, like planning a trip or solving a language-related communication issue.

Problem-Based Learning not only deepens students’ understanding of content but also equips them with critical skills such as information retrieval, problem-solving, teamwork, and self-directed learning, which are highly valuable in both academic and professional settings.

Flipped Classrooms

Flipped classrooms represent a pedagogical approach that reverses the traditional model of education. In a flipped classroom, the initial exposure to course content, often in the form of lectures, is moved outside of the class, typically through video lectures or readings. This allows in-class time to be dedicated to interactive, application-based activities. Here are the key aspects of flipped classrooms:

Key Elements of Flipped Classrooms:

Pre-Class Content: Students access pre-recorded video lectures, readings, or other resources before coming to class. This prepares them with the foundational knowledge necessary for the in-class activities.
In-Class Activities: In-class time is devoted to active learning activities, such as discussions, problem-solving, group work, debates, case studies, or hands-on projects. These activities reinforce and apply the pre-class content.
Student-Centered: Flipped classrooms shift the focus from the teacher delivering content to the students actively engaging with and applying the content, fostering a more student-centered learning environment.
Interaction: Instructors become facilitators, guiding and engaging with students during in-class activities, providing real-time feedback and support.
Flexibility: Students have the flexibility to review pre-class content at their own pace, which can cater to individual learning preferences and schedules.

Benefits of Flipped Classrooms:

Deeper Learning: Students have more time to interact with and apply course content in a supportive in-class environment, leading to better comprehension and retention.
Active Engagement: The flipped model encourages active learning, critical thinking, and problem-solving, promoting a more engaging learning experience.
Personalized Learning: Students can review content at their own pace and seek help when needed, allowing for personalized learning experiences.
Increased Interaction: Instructors have more time for one-on-one or small group interactions, enabling them to address individual student needs and provide timely feedback.
Preparation for Real-World Challenges: The application-based in-class activities better prepare students for real-world problem-solving and teamwork, aligning with the demands of the modern workforce.

Tools and Resources for Flipped Classrooms:

Video Creation Tools: Instructors often use video creation software to record lectures or create multimedia resources.
Learning Management Systems: These platforms help organize and distribute pre-class materials and resources.
Collaborative Software: Platforms for online discussions, group work, and collaboration can enhance the in-class activities.
Assessment Tools: Instructors may use digital tools for quizzes, surveys, and assessments to gauge student understanding.

Measuring the Impact of Flipped Classrooms:

Student Performance: Assess student performance through quizzes, tests, and assignments to determine if flipped classrooms lead to improved outcomes.
Student Feedback: Gather feedback from students about their experiences with the flipped model, as well as areas that may need improvement.
Comparison to Traditional Models: Compare student performance in flipped classrooms to traditional lecture-based classes to assess the model’s efficacy.

Flipped classrooms have gained popularity for their potential to enhance student engagement, promote deeper learning, and better prepare students for the challenges of the modern world. While they require careful planning and the creation of high-quality pre-class materials, they can provide a dynamic and effective learning environment.

Technology Integration

Technology integration in education involves incorporating various forms of technology into the teaching and learning process to enhance and support educational outcomes. It can encompass a wide range of tools and resources, from basic devices like computers and tablets to sophisticated educational software and digital platforms. Here are key aspects of technology integration in education:

Role of Technology in Education:

Enhancing Learning: Technology provides opportunities to make learning more engaging, interactive, and accessible to diverse learning styles.
Access to Information: Technology enables students and educators to access vast amounts of information, resources, and multimedia content, enriching the learning experience.
Interactive Learning: Interactive simulations, multimedia presentations, and online discussions can make complex concepts more understandable.
Customization: Educational technology can adapt to individual student needs, allowing for personalized learning pathways.
Preparation for the Digital Age: Integrating technology into education helps prepare students for a future where digital skills are essential in various professions.

Examples of Technology Tools and Platforms:

Learning Management Systems (LMS): Platforms like Moodle, Canvas, or Blackboard provide centralized hubs for course materials, assignments, and communication.
Educational Software: Educational software and apps cater to various subjects and grade levels, offering interactive learning experiences.
Online Resources: Access to digital libraries, open educational resources (OER), and educational websites supports research and self-study.
Video Conferencing Tools: Platforms like Zoom or Google Meet enable remote learning and virtual classrooms.
Interactive Whiteboards: Interactive whiteboards in physical classrooms facilitate dynamic presentations and note-taking.
Tablets and Mobile Devices: These devices allow students to access learning materials and apps from anywhere.

Best Practices for Integrating Technology:

Clear Objectives: Define specific learning goals that technology will help achieve.
Training and Support: Ensure educators are proficient in using technology and have access to support resources.
Pedagogical Alignment: Integrate technology in ways that align with pedagogical approaches, enhancing rather than replacing traditional teaching methods.
Digital Citizenship: Teach students about responsible and ethical technology use, including online safety and information literacy.
Regular Assessment: Continuously evaluate the impact of technology integration on learning outcomes and make adjustments as needed.
Accessibility: Ensure that technology is accessible to all students, including those with disabilities.

Challenges in Technology Integration:

Cost: Purchasing and maintaining technology infrastructure can be expensive.
Digital Divide: Not all students have equal access to technology and the internet, creating disparities in education.
Resistance to Change: Some educators may be resistant to adopting technology, and training may be needed.
Security and Privacy: Protecting student data and privacy is a significant concern.
Technology Reliability: Technical issues and outages can disrupt the learning process.

Adapting Technology to Different Learning Environments:

Traditional Classrooms: Interactive whiteboards, educational software, and digital textbooks can enhance in-person learning.
Blended Learning: A mix of in-person and online instruction often employs a learning management system and various online resources.
Online Learning: Fully online courses require robust LMS platforms, video conferencing, and asynchronous communication tools.
Flipped Classrooms: Technology is used to deliver pre-class content, while in-class time focuses on active learning and collaboration.

Integrating technology effectively requires careful planning, training, and a commitment to harnessing its potential to enhance the educational experience. When used strategically, technology can significantly improve engagement, learning outcomes, and the overall educational experience for students.

Assessment and Feedback

Assessment and feedback are crucial components of the education process. They provide a means to evaluate students’ progress, understanding, and performance, as well as offer guidance for improvement. Here are key aspects of assessment and feedback in education:

Assessment:

Formative Assessment: These assessments occur during the learning process and help both students and teachers monitor progress. Examples include quizzes, in-class discussions, and self-assessments.
Summative Assessment: Summative assessments are typically used to evaluate a student’s overall understanding and mastery of a subject, often at the end of a unit or course. Examples include final exams, standardized tests, and major projects.
Authentic Assessment: This approach evaluates students based on real-world tasks or projects, such as creating a business plan, conducting experiments, or developing a portfolio.
Rubrics: Rubrics provide clear criteria for evaluation and grading. They help standardize grading and provide transparency about expectations.
Self-Assessment: Encouraging students to evaluate their own work can promote reflection and self-awareness. This can be done through self-assessment forms, peer reviews, or student-led conferences.
Continuous Assessment: Rather than relying solely on a final exam, continuous assessment spreads evaluation throughout the learning process, taking into account various assignments and activities.

Feedback:

Timely Feedback: Providing feedback promptly after an assessment allows students to act on it and make improvements.
Specific and Constructive: Effective feedback is specific, offering clear guidance on what was done well and what needs improvement. It should be constructive and encouraging, focusing on growth rather than criticism.
Goal-Oriented: Feedback should tie back to learning objectives and help students understand how to meet those objectives.
Two-Way Communication: Encourage students to ask questions or seek clarification on feedback. Additionally, teachers can ask students for feedback on their teaching methods.
Diverse Forms: Feedback can be written or oral, and it can come from teachers, peers, or self-assessment. It can also incorporate technology, such as comments on digital assignments.

Importance of Assessment and Feedback:

Improving Learning: Assessment and feedback help students identify areas of strength and areas that require improvement, leading to better learning outcomes.
Motivation: Positive and constructive feedback can motivate students and increase their self-efficacy, fostering a growth mindset.
Accountability: Assessment ensures accountability in the education system and helps maintain academic standards.
Program Improvement: Educational institutions can use assessment data to enhance curriculum and instructional practices.

Challenges and Considerations:

Bias and Fairness: Ensuring assessments and feedback are free from bias and discrimination is essential.
Overemphasis on Grades: Over-reliance on grades can overshadow the learning process, so it’s important to balance assessment with other learning objectives.
Different Learning Styles: Students have diverse learning styles and needs, and assessments should accommodate these differences.
Technology Integration: Online learning and digital assessment methods require special considerations and safeguards to maintain academic integrity.
Student Well-Being: The mental and emotional impact of assessments and feedback on students should be considered, and support should be available for those experiencing stress or anxiety.

Assessment and feedback are critical tools in education. They play a fundamental role in enhancing student learning, fostering motivation, and improving educational practices. When conducted effectively and thoughtfully, they contribute to the overall success of the educational process.

Overcoming Challenges

Overcoming challenges in education is essential for creating effective learning environments and ensuring that all students have the opportunity to succeed. Here are strategies and considerations for addressing common challenges in education:

1. Addressing the Digital Divide:

Provide access to devices and internet connectivity for students who lack them.
Develop community partnerships or initiatives to bridge the digital divide.
Offer technology training to students and their families to ensure effective use of digital resources.

2. Diverse Learning Needs:

Implement differentiated instruction to cater to diverse learning styles and abilities.
Utilize Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles to create inclusive learning materials.
Offer special education services and support for students with specific needs.

3. Teacher Professional Development:

Invest in ongoing professional development opportunities for educators.
Promote collaboration and peer learning among teachers to share best practices.
Provide resources and time for teachers to stay updated on the latest teaching methods and technologies.

4. Student Engagement:

Incorporate active learning strategies, such as group work and problem-based learning, to boost engagement.
Foster a positive and inclusive classroom environment to motivate students.
Encourage student participation through interactive discussions and hands-on activities.

5. Assessment and Feedback:

Develop clear assessment rubrics and guidelines to ensure fair and consistent grading.
Provide timely and constructive feedback to help students understand their progress and areas for improvement.
Encourage self-assessment and peer assessment to promote reflective learning.

6. Curriculum Alignment:

Ensure that curriculum aligns with learning objectives and is relevant to real-world skills.
Regularly review and update the curriculum to stay current with advancements in knowledge and technology.
Promote interdisciplinary learning to show how subjects are interconnected.

7. Parent and Community Involvement:

Establish open lines of communication between schools and parents or guardians.
Encourage community involvement through volunteer opportunities or partnerships.
Engage families in their children’s education by providing resources and workshops.

8. Inclusivity and Diversity:

Foster a welcoming and inclusive school culture where all students, regardless of background, feel valued.
Incorporate diverse perspectives and voices into the curriculum and classroom discussions.
Implement anti-bias and anti-racist practices to combat discrimination and inequity.

9. Financial Resources:

Advocate for increased educational funding to ensure schools have the necessary resources.
Seek grants and community support for additional resources or programs.
Make efficient use of existing resources by prioritizing needs and reducing waste.

10. Innovation and Technology:

Embrace emerging educational technologies to enhance learning experiences.
Create a culture of innovation by encouraging teachers and students to experiment with new tools and methods.
Stay informed about the latest trends and research in education.

11. Teacher Burnout:

Promote teacher well-being through professional development on stress management and self-care.
Support teachers with manageable workloads and realistic expectations.
Encourage a culture of appreciation and recognition for educators.

Overcoming challenges in education often requires a multifaceted approach, involving collaboration between educators, administrators, policymakers, students, and the community. By addressing these challenges strategically and consistently, educational institutions can work towards creating a more equitable and effective learning environment for all students.

Faculty Development

Faculty development refers to a systematic process of providing training, support, and resources to educators to enhance their teaching, research, and professional development. It is a crucial component of higher education and other educational institutions, as it empowers faculty members to stay current with best practices, improve their teaching methods, and contribute to the overall quality of education. Here are key aspects of faculty development:

1. Objectives of Faculty Development:

Improve teaching effectiveness and student learning outcomes.
Enhance research and scholarship productivity.
Foster professional growth and career advancement.
Stay updated with pedagogical innovations and emerging technologies.
Promote a culture of continuous improvement and accountability.

2. Strategies for Faculty Development:

Workshops and Seminars: Conduct regular workshops and seminars on topics like effective teaching methods, assessment strategies, research techniques, and educational technology.
Mentorship Programs: Pair experienced faculty members with newer colleagues to provide guidance, support, and knowledge transfer.
Peer Observation and Evaluation: Encourage peer-to-peer classroom observations and evaluations to provide constructive feedback.
Online Learning: Offer online courses and resources that allow faculty to learn at their own pace.
Conferences and Conventions: Support faculty attendance at conferences and conventions to learn from experts in their field.
Research Grants and Support: Provide opportunities for faculty to secure research grants and resources.
Teaching and Learning Centers: Establish centers dedicated to faculty development, offering resources, expertise, and support.
Communities of Practice: Encourage the formation of faculty communities that share ideas and best practices.

3. Assessment and Evaluation:

Use assessment tools to evaluate the impact of faculty development programs on teaching and student outcomes.
Conduct regular surveys and feedback collection to assess faculty needs and effectiveness of the programs.

4. Technology Integration:

Implement technology tools and platforms to deliver faculty development programs and resources.
Emphasize the use of educational technology in teaching and research.

5. Individualized Professional Development:

Recognize that faculty members have diverse needs and preferences for development.
Support individualized plans for professional growth that align with personal goals and institutional objectives.

6. Collaboration and Cross-Disciplinary Training:

Encourage interdisciplinary collaboration and training opportunities to promote innovation and diversity of thought.

7. Promotion and Tenure Support:

Offer guidance and support for faculty seeking promotion and tenure, including mentorship, workshops, and resources.

8. Inclusivity and Diversity Training:

Provide training on diversity, equity, and inclusion to promote a welcoming and inclusive campus environment.

9. Leadership Development:

Identify and nurture leadership potential among faculty members for future administrative roles within the institution.

10. Continuous Improvement:

Regularly review and update faculty development programs to ensure they align with changing educational needs and priorities.

Faculty development is vital for maintaining the quality of education, fostering a culture of innovation, and preparing educators to meet the evolving challenges of the educational landscape. It benefits not only individual faculty members but also the institution as a whole by enhancing teaching, research, and overall institutional excellence.

Student Perspectives

Understanding student perspectives is crucial in shaping an effective and learner-centered educational experience. Gathering feedback from students provides insights into their needs, preferences, challenges, and overall satisfaction with their educational journey. Here are ways to consider and incorporate student perspectives:

1. Surveys and Questionnaires:

Design and distribute anonymous surveys to students to collect their feedback on various aspects of their educational experience, such as course content, teaching methods, and campus facilities.
Ask specific questions about what is working well and where improvements are needed.

2. Focus Groups:

Organize focus group sessions where students can engage in open discussions about their experiences, challenges, and suggestions for improvement.
Provide a comfortable and confidential setting for students to express their opinions.

3. Student Associations and Representatives:

Establish or collaborate with student associations, councils, or representatives who can act as liaisons between the student body and the institution.
These representatives can voice concerns and suggestions on behalf of their peers.

4. Anonymous Feedback Mechanisms:

Implement online or physical suggestion boxes where students can provide anonymous feedback.
Ensure that there are clear processes for addressing and acting on the feedback received.

5. Exit Interviews and Surveys:

Conduct exit interviews or surveys with graduating students to gather insights on their overall experience and any suggestions for improvement.

6. Digital and Social Media Platforms:

Create online discussion forums or social media groups where students can freely share their opinions, seek help, and interact with peers and faculty.
Monitor these platforms to identify trends and concerns.

7. Course Evaluations:

Use end-of-course evaluations to collect feedback on specific courses, instructors, and the learning experience.
Ensure that these evaluations are systematically reviewed and used for continuous improvement.

8. Involving Students in Decision-Making:

Include students in decision-making processes, such as curriculum development, institutional policies, and program planning.
Solicit their input and actively involve them in committees and working groups.

9. Real-Time Feedback Mechanisms:

Offer opportunities for students to provide real-time feedback during lectures or through digital tools, allowing instructors to make immediate adjustments.

10. Acknowledgment and Action:

Demonstrate that student feedback is valued by acknowledging it and taking action where appropriate.
Provide students with updates on how their feedback has influenced changes in the institution or program.

11. Incorporating Feedback into Program Improvement:

Regularly assess and review student feedback, and use it to make evidence-based improvements in the curriculum, teaching methods, and institutional policies.

12. Anonymous Surveys for Sensitive Topics:

Use anonymous surveys to gather feedback on sensitive topics such as mental health services, discrimination, or harassment, ensuring a safe and confidential space for expression.

Understanding and acting upon student perspectives fosters a collaborative and student-centered learning environment. It not only helps to address concerns and improve the quality of education but also reinforces a sense of trust and partnership between students and educational institutions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, active learning strategies, including group work, problem-based learning (PBL), flipped classrooms, technology integration, and effective assessment and feedback, play a vital role in enhancing the educational experience for students. These methods foster student engagement, critical thinking, and deeper understanding of course material. By encouraging students to take an active role in their education, they become better prepared for the challenges of the modern world and the demands of the workforce.

Group work promotes collaboration, communication, and problem-solving skills, while PBL immerses students in real-world scenarios that require critical thinking and self-directed learning. Flipped classrooms reorganize the traditional teaching model, allowing students to access content outside of class and use in-class time for active, application-based learning. Technology integration offers innovative tools and resources to enhance learning and engage students in new ways.

Effective assessment and feedback are essential for measuring student progress, motivating improvement, and ensuring accountability. Faculty development supports educators in continuously improving their teaching methods and keeping up with advancements in their fields. Lastly, understanding student perspectives through surveys, focus groups, and other feedback mechanisms helps institutions create a more student-centered and inclusive learning environment.

As the educational landscape continues to evolve, the integration of these active learning strategies is crucial to providing students with a well-rounded and dynamic education. By addressing challenges, adapting to diverse needs, and involving both faculty and students in the educational process, institutions can work towards ensuring that students are better prepared for success in the future.