Date of Award
December 2024
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Education (EdD)
Department
Educational Leadership
First Advisor
Jared Schlenker
Abstract
Online students face challenges that on-campus students often do not. “Online students can feel isolated since they are not in synchronous courses where they get to see peers and instructors and interact face-to-face” (Garivaldis et al., 2022). The online learning community lacks support for students who choose to learn online. Teachers who teach online have had little to no training on how to support and offer similar experiences compared to what on-campus students receive. High-Impact Practices (HIPs) are widely researched educational practices that, when implemented well, enhance student learning and engagement, as well as improve retention, and are associated with higher graduation rates, particularly for students who have traditionally been underserved (Teaching Transformation and Development Academy, 2024). This study aims to provide guidance on implementing HIPs into two- and four-year institutions, guided by a review of the primary literature and feedback from professors at 11 higher education institutions across the state of North Dakota. The essential components of this study consist of input from 56 professors through surveys. The findings are summarized through a plan of implementation that could be used by two- and four-year institutions across the state of North Dakota to incorporate HIPs in the online classroom. The objective of this study was to provide an understanding of HIPs in higher education, with a focus on online classes. The study provides valuable insights into implementing High-Impact practices (HIPs) in two-year and four-year institutions in North Dakota, focusing on their positive impact on student learning, engagement, and retention. HIPs promote essential learning outcomes like cultural understanding, practical skills, and civic responsibility, which are crucial for preparing students to be engaged citizens and lifelong learners. Critical considerations for successful implementation include faculty training, course design, student support, and institutional recognition. As a result of the study, a professional development workshop was created to help educators develop the skills and tools to incorporate HIPs into their curriculum. The implementation of HIPs is vital for equipping students with the skills needed to become active participants and proactive members of the community and to pursue lifelong learning.
Recommended Citation
Kallock, Sarah, "Using High-Impact Practices To Support Online Students In Two-Year And Four-Year Institutions" (2024). Theses and Dissertations. 6538.
https://commons.und.edu/theses/6538