While many colleges and universities once associated themselves with thick tomes of knowledge, technology plays a critical role in their processes. In addition to all of the typical IT operations that any business must contend with, these bastions of learning also need to keep their students’ data secure, make sure that these students are completing their degrees on time, and make sure that students stay enrolled.
Universities rely on quite a bit of technology that enables them to function, and what we’re referring to goes beyond the productivity suites found on campus computers and the multimedia equipment educators use to spice up their lectures. Let’s review a few solutions that universities today can leverage that can bring these benefits.
Degree Progress Management
In order to earn their degree, each student is required to complete a litany of required courses. While each academic program will require different ones, there is no way for a student to obtain a degree without following these requirements. Many programs will offer space for elective courses, or selective courses (those which the student can choose from a list to fill a particular requirement). This system can result in some academic challenges, as students have to be that much more careful while selecting their classes (and not to take too many courses that don’t apply to their degree).
Degree Progress Management solutions help to reduce the likelihood of improper scheduling, showing students and their advisors what has yet to be completed in order to complete a degree, and which classes can fill those requirements. These solutions can also accommodate other considerations, showing a student how their progress would be influenced by something like a changed major.
Student Retention
There’s no question that there are students who begin their collegiate experience woefully unprepared for the workload they face. Many institutions see students struggle their way back home as a result of not knowing what resources and educational supports they had access to on-campus.
However, there is student retention software that enables educators to assist these students in organizing what they need to do. From appointment creation to educational to-do lists, students can find the support they need to succeed in their education and beyond.
Online Learning
In the past, we have relied on synchronous learning - the traditional, lecture-based approach that required both teacher and student to be present for the lesson to be delivered. With today’s technology, students are able to embrace asynchronous learning. This method allows students with less time and fewer resources to learn in an unstructured way, progressing at their own rate.
This method is well-suited to online learning, where applications can be rebranded to reflect the educational organization. These educational platforms give students plenty of tools in a centralized platform, allowing them to discuss topics in message boards, access learning modules, review their grades, and to delve into additional resources.
Perhaps you are a member of the educational industry, and maybe, you aren’t. Either way, we found these technologies and their applications to be worth sharing. How have you witnessed technology shaping education, or any other industry? Share your experience in the comments!
