By Heather Zimar, Managing Editor, Journals and Publications, AACRAO
In the latest issue of C&U, the article, “Empirically Grounded Institutional Levers to Foster College Student Success,” outlines a research-based framework for improving undergraduate outcomes. Authors Natalee M. Erb, Emily G. R. Waddell, and John M. Braxton argue that while public scrutiny of higher education is rising, institutions can significantly amplify student growth by pulling “small levers”—specific, evidence-based practices—across four key domains.
The Four Domains of Success
Academic Attainment: Focuses on knowledge acquisition and “deep teaching.” The authors emphasize that faculty behavior is the most impactful variable, advocating for high-quality student-faculty interactions and a strong classroom-level sense of belonging.
Cognitive & Intellectual Development: Centers on critical thinking and problem-solving. Key levers include undergraduate research, collaborative learning, and highly organized instructional methods.
Occupational Attainment: Prioritizes post-graduation employment and job satisfaction. Recommendations include experiential learning (internships), dedicated career counseling, and the use of e-Portfolios to build professional identity.
Adulthood & Citizenship: Prepares students for global society through service-learning with structured reflection, leadership training, and maintaining high academic standards paired with support.
Institutional Action
The article concludes by proposing an institutional audit. This tool allows administrators to self-assess the presence of these levers, helping them prioritize resources and transparently communicate their value to prospective students. The authors stress that there is no “one size fits all” solution; success requires systemic effort from all campus stakeholders.
Other articles in the winter issue include:
Features
Recruiting and Retaining Online Students: An Exploratory Study of Universities with Mid-Size Online Program Enrollments by Don Hossler, Luke Schultheis, and J. T. Allen
Interview with Dale King by Mike Bilfinger
Commentary
Mentoring College-Bound Syrian Students by Judith Mintel
Building Higher Education Bridges: What the Paris Olympics Can Teach Us About the Importance of Our Colleges and Universities by Stephen Handel and Eileen Stempel
Performance-Based Funding for Ohio Public Institutions by Ceci Rockwell
A Cautionary Tale: Navigating the Perils and Promise of Direct Admissions in Higher Education by Clifford Wymbs
Campus Viewpoint
Admission and Academic Viewpoints from the Front Seat of a Merger by Nicole DeCapua and Jordanna Maziarz
Research in Brief
Passport to Success: An Exploratory Study of Help-Seeking Knowledge and Sense of Belonging among First-Year College Students by Terrell L. Strayhorn and J’Quen O. Johnson
AACRAO Review
Review of: Climbing the Admissions Leadership Peak: Lessons from the ALP by Veronica Vergoth
Review of: How Colleges Set Their Prices: The Need for Federal Oversight of “Cost of Attendance” in Higher Education by Steven J. McDowell
Review of: How Colleges Use Data by Courtney O. Brown
For information on submitting a manuscript to C&U, contact the Managing Editor.
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