NSSE survey shows University lacking in “Enriching Educational Experiences”

University administration is planning for the future guided by information gathered from students in last spring’s National Survey of Student Engagement.

While overall scores have steadily increased since the survey was first administered in 2001, this year’s benchmark report shows scores for the Enriching Educational Experiences section of the survey are slightly lower than those in the previous year.

The Enriching Educational Experiences section of the survey asked students how learning opportunities inside and outside the classroom contribute to their overall academic program. Questions covered subjects like student interaction and whether the climate of the University encourages contact among students from different economic, social and racial or ethnic backgrounds.

The University scored slightly lower than other UT system universities, UT selected peers and other select universities located across the nation in this category, according to survey results.

The NSSE is conducted each spring by the Office of Institutional Research and is only open to freshmen and senior-level students. Thirty-one percent of eligible students participated in the online survey.

The survey is centered on five benchmarks: Level of Academic Challenge, Active and Collaborative Learning, Student Faculty Interaction, Supportive Campus Environment and Enriching Educational Experiences.

Twenty percent of senior-level responders said they attended campus events and activities “very little.” Twenty-six percent also said the University provided “very little” support they needed to thrive socially.

Thirty-nine percent of first-year students who took the survey said they believe “some” level of encouragement from the University to interact with students from different backgrounds. Thirteen percent said they received “very little” support they needed to thrive socially.

Dr. Peter J. Fos, provost and vice president for academic affairs, said the University is already taking steps to boost those scores.

Fos said the University also plans to begin an honors program in fall 2009, a program planned to feature field experiences, study abroad, undergraduate research and learning community experiences.

Fos also said Dr. Bob Sterken, director of international studies, is working with several universities to provide international study opportunities for students, such as trips to France and London next year.

Surveys such as the NSSE assist the administration in planning purposes, including the selection of the best Quality Enhancement Plan, according to Sterken.

“Last year the committee that worked to find our QEP topic- the topic that most benefits UT Tyler students – used the NSSE as well as lots of other data to look at student need and desires for our institution,” Sterken said.

Out of almost 100 ideas for the QEP topic received, the committee narrowed it to four by looking at student survey data and listening to focus groups, Sterken said.

“By fall 2010, as part of our SACS reaffirmation process, the Quality Enhancement Plan will be implemented, which will consist of living/learning communities of students who will be engaged in global awareness activities, including courses,” Fos said.

Students don’t have to travel to a foreign country to enrich their educational experience. The University offers several options here at home.

Dr. Cameron Rose, director of choral activities, encourages students to take advantage of the cultural opportunities provided by the University.

“Art and cultural opportunities enrich our lives and can inspire us to think outside of our normal day-to-day experiences. Attending a play, visiting a museum or listening to a concert can inspire us to consider, question, ponder, think feel and even perhaps motivate us to do something,” Rose said.

Administration said the survey is scheduled to be offered again this spring. Eligible students will be contacted through their campus e-mail address.

Melissa Greene Associate Editor