Pairing Social Networks and Academic Purpose to Boost Retention

Adam Troy — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 14:18:00 GMT

Colleges and universities working to combat the nation’s lagging retention rates are adopting new online mediums at a rapid pace, however few marketers have proven methods from which to draw upon, until now.

A new white paper (http://sharing.educationdynamics.com/media/p/377.aspx) addresses a vital question: How can postsecondary institutions effectively harness the power of social networks to serve an academic purpose, and engage students to heighten academic success and student retention? As it turns out, orientation, learning outcomes, mentoring, and academic advising are the primary ingredients that comprise the recipe for success.

The aforementioned four elements were derived from preliminary results of a study we conducted across 20 schools that indicate students involved in purpose networks—or academically-purposeful social networking communities—were retained to their sophomore year at a nine percent higher rate than students not involved in the network. Additionally, more than 13 percent of students surveyed reported that the purpose network was “very important” or “extremely important” in their decision to remain enrolled at the university.

One of the greatest aspects about purpose networks is the capability to post articles relevant to student challenges and current events―topics may range from how to succeed in coursework to ways students can balance academics, work and socializing to the importance of nutrition and a healthy lifestyle. Another is the ability to customize interactive tests to gauge student engagement or help students make academic or career decisions that best suit their interests and goals.

Purpose networks are changing the way institutions interface with prospective and current students, and those progressive universities that are capitalizing on web-based platforms through which to engage students are being met with marked results.

―Dr. Adam Troy

Director of Research, EducationDynamics

Higher Ed Dialog : purpose networks

Pairing Social Networks and Academic Purpose to Boost Retention