Academic preparation is the biggest predictor of success for students in higher education. We must learn to strengthen students’ focus on preparation by defining the preparation that will lead to success and by rewarding and reinforcing an academic culture focused on preparation. By studying this article and its linked resources, and by using the associated shared files, you will be able to:
• Design an introductory college curriculum and orientation process that will prepare students to transition successfully from high school, other higher ed institutions, or from the work environment.
• Implement a new curricular planning process that is built on both expected competencies for successful learning (learning incomes) and on learning outcomes.
• Implement a new form of student evaluation process that rewards students for being prepared to undertake the learning before them.
• Formulate a white paper to explain the relative advantages and disadvantages of the current and new approach, and to charge a group to study its potential implications and implementation at your institution.
• Formulate a plan to help students be better prepared for the teaching and testing styles of each instructor, and to help them share success strategies and useful resources among themselves in advance of course enrollment.
• Evaluate the current curriculum’s strength and weaknesses at preparing students to be life-long learners.