Sandra Goddard

This module was about ethical behavior in admissions couselling. Some of the most interesting concepts were illustrated in the Youtube videos (60 Minutes, etc) that had undercover cameras showing the pushy sales tactics of the admission counsellors. It is good to know that there is some regulation now that forces admission departments to be accountable for the statistics they are quoting potential students - especially regarding graduation rates, employability, and salaries. Having discussion groups among admission counsellors to discuss ethics vs pressure to enroll students, and how to handle difficult ethical decisions has been shown to bolster these employees and… >>>

When talking to potential students regarding their admissions concerns and questions, it is important to be prepared both as an individual and the environment. Each student needs to be assessed as to their level of preparation and understanding, as well as their preferred method of communication. Do they like lots of detail, or are they easily overwhelmed. It helps to be a good listener and reflect on the information they are communicating in order to craft an authentic and unscripted response. I think this translates to any career field, such as teaching, to find the best way to reach your… >>>

In this module I learned about how the admissions process and focus has changed over the decades. At one time the position was just transactional, then there was tendency to use sales tactics to get students to enroll. Now the focus is more on service - trying to answer questions, clarify information, and helping students find the right fit. With the internet and social media, students today come armed with lots of information (some accurate and some not). There are also differences between how different generations process information and like to communicate. Being aware of all these changes is importance… >>>

I learned that admissions has evolved from a simple transactional process into a more complex informational, sales, and customer service career. It is important to learn about all the programs, fees, schedules, etc, as well as develop communication and sales skills, and stick to professional and ethical standards. A career in admissions is a growth opportunity that is a learning journey. 

In order to lead one needs a desire to lead. Based on the group and the circumstances, a leader and adjust their leadership style to be coercive, democratic, affiliative, coaching, pacesetter, or authoritative.  Qualities that a good leader possesses are positive, honest, and hopeful. A leader in education coaches students and gives them what they need to succeed. 

As a relatively new hire, I can recall that I experienced all the steps that were discussed in the module. I was warmly welcomed, completed all paperwork, given a badge and passwords, given time to complete some required training courses, and given a tour of the campus and introduced to my fellow instructors. Since I am new to being an instructor, I have been taking training classes to prepare me for teaching in the classroom. I will soon be ready to start teaching a class. 

Developing a job description not only provides the interviewer with an RJP but also helps in the formulation of interview questions. Being prepared when starting the interview process, will help make the interview more effective. Other tips to help the interview process would include review the application prior to starting the interview, make notes immediately after the interview to keep your thoughts straight, make notes on post-it notes to help with confidentiality, leave a few minutes between each interview to give yourself time to organized your thoughts, make notes, and rate the candidate. Complete the hiring process in planned segments… >>>

Factors that enter into the recruitment process will be determined by the type of position you are trying to fill and the applicants you are trying to attract. Print ads may be more useful for those who are not computer savvy or do not have internet. Internet job boards like Indeed and Monster are readily available and easy to use. Networking by asking current employees or professional alliances to refer qualified candidates is cost effective and may generate very qualified candidates. Using an employment agency has both pros and cons: while they can do a lot of the prescreening, they… >>>

In order to find the right instructor, first start with a job analysis to determine KSAOs necessary for the position (through observations and interviews). Once you have your KSAOs sort through them to determine deal breakers and preferences. Then you can prepare a job description and write interview questions. By going through this process, you spend less time and money looking for candidates and interviewing, and also have more satisfaction from new hires. 

In order to find the right instructor, first start with a job analysis to determine KSAOs necessary for the position (through observations and interviews). Once you have your KSAOs sort through them to determine deal breakers and preferences. Then you can prepare a job description and write interview questions. By going through this process, you spend less time and money looking for candidates and interviewing, and also have more satisfaction from new hires.