In this article we analyze the evolution of higher education in terms of the amount of time university students spend studying and the motivation they have to face educational challenges.
The path to higher education has evolved significantly in recent decades, and a new survey reveals that college students in the United States are spending more time studying than they did a decade ago. However, despite this increase in hours spent on academic preparation, students do not feel fully motivated.
The National Survey of Student Engagement (NSSE) has yielded interesting results about college education and how to improve the student experience.
One of the survey’s findings is the importance of extracurricular activities in the lives of college students. Participating in research internships, mentoring, social projects, or joining a specific learning community can be highly impactful, as it promotes connections between students, faculty, and experiences that contribute to students’ academic and personal success.
The interaction between teachers and students
The relationship between teachers and students is crucial to motivating students to continue their studies. Teachers who engage in conversations beyond the classroom, such as discussing career plans or academic subjects, demonstrate to students that the institution offers the necessary support for their development. These interactions can influence institutional retention and graduation rates.
Time spent studying
One of the most striking findings from the survey is that college students now spend more time studying than they did a decade ago. On average, students spend approximately two more hours per week studying compared to fifteen years ago.
While the exact reason for this increase is not specified, it is related to retention and graduation rates, suggesting that greater commitment to study is beneficial for students and institutions. (Read also: 5 Tips to get better grades in your Schoolwork)
The importance of academic advisors
The quality of academic advisors is more important than quantity. Having a quality, experienced advisor can motivate students to stay in college and graduate. The survey also revealed that one advising session per semester is not enough.
And it is recommended that students visit their advisors at least once per semester. It is also critical that these sessions address topics beyond academic performance, such as life and career plans.
Indicators of commitment
The survey identified several indicators of engagement that influence college student retention. The quality of interactions with professors and advisors, a sense of belonging and safety at college, a supportive environment, economic stability, and the effectiveness of teaching practices are key factors. The quality of interactions and environment were shown to have a significantly greater impact on student retention compared to learning strategies.
Driving retention and graduation
To increase the percentage of incoming students who graduate, higher education institutions must focus on improving the quality of advising and guidance. It is essential that advisors address aspects beyond academic performance and focus on students’ future aspirations, life plans, careers, and physical and emotional well-being.
In summary, the NSSE survey provides valuable insight into the experience of college students in the United States. Although they spend more time studying than they did a decade ago, motivation and quality of advising are critical areas that educational institutions must address to improve retention and graduation rates. Higher education is not only about accumulating knowledge, but also about supporting students in their personal and professional development.
Fountain: Article from the Institute for the Future of Education of the Monterrey Institute of Technology on study time and motivation of university students. Photo taken from: Observatorio.tec.mx
