A new online curriculum developed by Believe in Students is designed to address basic needs insecurity among college students while emphasizing the crucial role faculty members can play in providing assistance.
Understanding Basic Needs Insecurity
Rising tuition costs and an increasingly diverse student population have made issues such as food and housing insecurity more pressing in the context of student retention. Recent research indicates that 22.6% of undergraduate students and 12.2% of graduate students experience food insecurity, while 8% of undergraduates and 4.6% of graduate students face homelessness.
The #RealCollege Curriculum
In response to these issues, the #RealCollege curriculum was launched in late October to equip faculty and staff with the resources necessary to understand student demographics and challenges affecting their success. The curriculum offers online courses that focus on the experiences of students and include relevant data.
Awareness of Available Resources
Despite the increasing prevalence of basic needs insecurity, many students are not fully aware of the resources available to them. According to a report from Tyton Partners in 2023, 60% of college students do not comprehend the complete range of support services offered by their institutions. Additionally, a report by the Government Accountability Office found that many students eligible for public benefit programs are not enrolled.
Recommendations for Improvement
Research from Tyton Partners advises higher education institutions to improve communication strategies and promote programs that enhance awareness of available resources. The establishment of coordinated services that address students’ needs holistically has also been recommended.
Collaboration and Course Content
The #RealCollege curriculum is a collaborative initiative led by researchers Sara Goldrick-Rab and Jesse Stommel, in partnership with organizations including Never Whisper Justice and Believe in Students. The initial course, which was released on October 28, focuses on the existing landscape of basic needs insecurity in colleges and aims to enhance practitioners’ skills and understanding.
Course Structure and Objectives
Comprising four courses, this curriculum includes video presentations from experts, administrators, and students, as well as self-reflection and assessment activities. The objective is to equip higher education professionals with the skills necessary to support their students effectively.
Feedback from Participants
Participants from pilot institutions reported a greater preparedness to identify available resources at their schools, with 72% stating they felt more equipped after the course and 80% indicating they formulated concrete plans for implementing changes on their campuses.
Future of the Curriculum
The first course is offered free of charge, while subsequent courses are scheduled to be released in the coming year, with a pricing model still to be determined. Although primarily aimed at individuals working within higher education, the curriculum may also benefit others involved in supporting college students.
Source: Inside Higher Ed