Institutions must meet non-traditional student needs to attract more students: Opinion

Postsecondary institutions must adapt to the needs of non-traditional, “fluid” students to attract more students, writes Anne Khademian. Khademian writes that a recent US study found that 74% of students were non-traditional; these numbers include students who work, have family commitments, finance their own education, or are first generation students. The author recommends that institutions should prioritize supporting these students, as many may not otherwise be able to complete a traditional four-year degree. Khademian encourages institutions to innovate through building credentials and for-credit experiences into programs and guaranteeing transfer agreements. The author recommends building learning pathways leading to sustainable employment, partnering with employers on mentorship and experiential learning opportunities, and providing students with wraparound supports. Finally, Khademian notes that steps taken should be measured and assessed to determine the institution’s progress. Higher Ed Dive Note: Archived stories may contain dead links or be missing source links.