Sherry Plemmons

Orientation is a crucial component of the academic experience. Students should leave feeling engaged, well-informed, and prepared for success in their classes. engaged, informed, and set up for success in their class. 

Faculty involvement is an essential aspect of any successful educational program. Students need to trust and enjoy learning from their instructors, and faculty members play a crucial role in fostering this positive learning environment. However, in the case of the college I work for, an online school, there is no in-person orientation or equivalent for new students. This means that there are no opportunities for students to establish a personal connection with their instructors. Despite this limitation, there may be other ways to ensure that students feel supported and engaged in their online learning experience.

Students with more connections and relationships at their institution are more likely to graduate successfully. Therefore, when designing orientation programs, it is essential to consider the student's perspective. While policies and procedures are necessary from the institution's point of view, they are lower on the student's list of priorities. Therefore, it is recommended that current and alumni students be asked for feedback on previous orientations to improve the program and/or provide testimonials. 

Starting at a new school can be a daunting experience for students. They often worry about more challenging coursework and the fear of failing in a new environment. Besides academic concerns, students also need help fitting in with their classmates. Therefore, addressing the social aspect is as important as focusing on academic performance.

Apart from these factors, students also consider the cost of enrolling, including tuition fees, books, time, and opportunities. This includes the time they need to give up for family, friends, and other activities.

It is also essential to acknowledge that a student's perception plays a crucial role… >>>