April 2014

MAPworks, the neighborhoods, and what faculty can do to improve student retention and success

Kristen A. Renn, Professor Higher, Adult & Lifelong Education

Cori Fata-Hartley, Academic Specialist, Microbiology and Molecular Genetics

Wednesday, April 16, 2014

11:30 - 1:30

3405 Engineering (Dean's Conference Room)

Lunch Provided

Abstract

An ecological systems model of student success focuses attention on interactions among personal, interpersonal, and organizational features of the learning environment. This holistic approach to success allows for consideration of diverse student experiences and backgrounds while also attending to the common teaching and learning environment of STEM education. In this workshop we will use MSU's on-campus Neighborhood Engagement concept as a model for integrating academic and student support systems. Student Success Teams within the Neighborhoods use data about students psycho-social, non-cognitive, and behavioral characteristics along with information about their academic performance to design individual and group interventions. In this workshop we will discuss resources for STEM instructors who are interested in integrating their work with into the teaching and learning ecologies of the Neighborhoods.

About Kristen Renn

Kristen Renn is Professor of Higher, Adult, & Lifelong Education and Associate Dean of Undergraduate Studies/Director for Student Success Initiatives. She is currently leading the Neighborhoods Initiative, a residentially-based student success program at MSU. Her teaching and research are in the areas of college student learning and development, particularly in relation to students' racial, gender, and sexual orientation identities.