Institutional data were used to examine the grades and retention of first-year students in 2 types of living learning communities--Academic Theme Floors (ATFs) and Freshman Interest Groups (FIGs)--and a First-Year Experience (FYE) course. Multiple regression revealed students in FIGs earned nominally higher GPAs (standardized [beta] = 0.02, p less…

This qualitative study employed focus group interviews to explore students' perceptions of three well established academically based living-learning communities at a large, land-grant university in the Midwest. Three themes merged that illustrated students' perceptions of a culture that promoted seamless learning, a scholarly environment, and an…

This qualitative research study investigated the development of heuristic knowledge and its role in the academic and social journeys of five Vietnamese American students enrolled at a community college located in the American Midwest. The participants were interviewed in depth to understand their "lived experiences" while attending the community…

This study examined differences between participation in academic and non-academic student organizations at a large, predominantly White, public research institution. A survey of 354 undergraduates revealed that students joined academic organizations to prepare for their futures while students joined non-academic organizations for immediate…

Today more than ever, student affairs must respond to a wide range of demands for accountability and respond to requests to assist faculty in designing the best learning environment for students. Student engagement is a term used to explain a set of beliefs that can guide student affairs as a field in planning and accomplishing this mission. This…

This qualitative study investigated contextual influences involved in college student identity development. It examined events, experiences, and relationships that alumni suggest either nourished or thwarted their perceptions of multiple dimensions of their identity during college. Findings suggest that self-perceptions of identity often change as…

At a predominantly White institution 118 African American students completed the Racial Identity Attitude Scale to assess the effects of racial identity on grade point average and students' psychological sense of belonging on campus. The results of the study indicated that academic achievement was not related to any of the racial identity…

Examines differences in retention rates and college grade point average of academic scholarship and leadership scholarship students. Results indicate no significant difference in college grade point average, however leadership scholars achieved higher retention rates. Results suggest that predictors of college involvement may be indirect…

Study seeks to identify student-learning goals (academic and developmental) that teaching faculty and student affairs practitioners both view as important in the undergraduate experience. Forty goals were ranked in importance and identified as to whether faculty or student affairs professionals were responsible for assisting students to achieve…

Discusses a model using intentionally structured groups in freshmen seminars. Proposes that collaborative efforts among academic departments and student affairs practitioners can enhance students' academic and intellectual development. Presents a rationale for how collaboration offers special opportunities for promoting positive educational and…

Highlights different types of student involvement, summarizes key findings, and identifies significant gaps in research regarding how student involvement on college campuses impacts student development and learning. Suggests that student affairs administrators need to continue the exploration on the importance of college student involvement.…

Investigates the lure and potential impact of casino gambling on college students in Mississippi. Findings suggest that casino gambling may significantly impact college students in regard to financial management, alcohol consumption, academic progress, and behavioral changes. (MKA)

Investigates the relationship of Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) scores and negative life stress on intercollegiate student-athletes' academic performances. Analysis of 53 male athletes and 32 female athletes indicate that negative life stress, experienced during the preceding year, can have deleterious effects on female, but not male,…

Describes students who were assigned to temporary housing at Indiana University from 1979 through 1981, examines their academic progress while they were assigned to temporary space and thereafter, and traces their disciplinary records. Results indicate students assigned to temporary housing have special needs traditional programs and practices may…

Examined relationship between developmental tasks and academic achievement among first-term college freshmen (n=83) enrolled in program for students at risk. Results support limited relationship between growth on developmental tasks of young adulthood and academic performance of university freshmen. Sex differences also were found on predictors of…