Tonight I watched the recorded session for the ASMCUE poster entitled “Instructional and Retention Strategies for STEM Students Using Co-Curricular Science Courses.” Matt Mastropaolo from Neumann University spoke about their NSF-funded program for first-year students. The program supports “24 academically gifted students” who also have financial needs. The research team evaluated their program and learned that students do feel supported but rarely use “office hours.” The program is in its second year (second cohort). To build student community, they have programming that includes trips and tours and get-togethers with faculty. Their data from their first cohorts indicates increases in retention in major and in their progression. Students are split in their use of office hours and mention scheduling as an issue. Sense of belonging was evaluated for program participants. Students in the program chose to come to Neumann University because of the financial aid package and location of the campus with respect to their homes. Emerging from the pandemic, students are now joining clubs and becoming more involved on campus. As part of the study, Mastropaolo and colleagues are investigating factors such as commuting and work on retention. Students are assessed in the fall, and there are also interviews. I was interested in their survey/evaluation system and the interviews. Mastropaolo mentioned that they interviewed students and recorded answers. I wonder how they coded and what trends they found. It seems that the emotional learning component is from the SEA PHAGES program. Mastropaolo did mention increased retention was seen for participants who were more active on campus. This makes sense and is also a challenge for Neumann University since Mastropaolo mentioned the campus has many commuters. Their goal is to increase retention by 25% through shared mentors and advisors and research experiences. As we rethink our first and second-year experiences on campus, it is useful to learn what others are doing to increase retention and engagement with the student community.
