Strengths-based initiatives for university students to identify and develop their strengths are increasing in popularity in the tertiary sector. An understanding of strengths provides students with greater resilience in their transition in and out of university. While such strengths-based initiatives have been studied among first-year student…

This study introduced Satir Growth Model (SGM) into career intervention to enhance Chinese college freshmen's career adaptability. The effect of SGM-based career intervention was examined by the randomised controlled trial design. Results indicated that the experimental group experienced a significant increase in career exploration and career…

This study aimed to investigate the current status of adversity quotient (AQ) development, develop an instructional model based on Rogers' theory, and assess the impact of the model on students' AQ. The study involved 33 first-year students from infant care services and management majors at Guangxi International Business Vocational College.…

First-year engineering students show difficulties in connecting basic vector algebra with manipulations using the graphical representation. Experiencing vectors in real applications can improve the process of learning vectors. Thus, we introduce a unique approach for using digital technologies, namely augmented reality. We utilized a video…

The widespread use of ICT offers considerable opportunities to society. However, there is ample evidence that students are exposed to various e-Safety challenges and risks through the use of ICT. Most Zimbabwean students who are not adequately prepared for e-Safety are now entering universities and are thus exposed to the risks posed by ICT.…

Retention concerns remain high for postsecondary institutions and even more so when focusing on populations such as those who are the first in the family to attend college, first-generation college students. First-generation students account for 34% of the collegiate population, yet 40% of first-generation students do not return for their…

The concept of "like dissolves like" is explored using a solvent extraction demonstration appropriate for first-year chemistry students. Equal volumes of aqueous methyl red and blue copper(II) sulfate form a purple solution. 1-Pentanol is added and floats on top as a clear layer due to its lower density and low water solubility. Vigorous…

Sense of belonging is a basic human need, which has been consistently correlated with positive educational outcomes such as good grades, retention, and satisfaction in college. Using a quasi-experimental research design, we analyzed data from 115 respondents to assess the impact of a short video intervention on first-year students' sense of…

The purpose of this multiple case study was to examine the motivational factors behind Black students' decisions to attend either a historically Black college/university (HBCU) or a predominantly white institution (PWI) when applying to both institutional systems. The study sample included 24 total participants: 12 first-year students from an HBCU…

Although reading homework is common in university courses, compliance rates vary. Using interviews, this study explored how five students responded to reading assignments in their introductory college mathematics classes and how they viewed reading and reading-related activities relative to their academic successes. Qualitative content analysis of…

Background: For engineers who aim to address sustainability challenges, participating in transdisciplinary teams is key. Yet developing transdisciplinary knowledge, including systems thinking, metacognition, and empathic thinking, is not well supported in traditional engineering programs. Purpose: The extent to which selected learning activities…

One of the present challenges confronting American society is the need for more equitable access to education and career opportunities. Every year, many first-year college students need more academic skills. Community colleges' open admission processes and low tuition rates offer viable choices for people seeking higher education (Dougherty &…

Emotional contagion is an intriguing subject in many academic fields, and it is also relevant in collaborative learning where learners share a physical or virtual space. We aimed at exploring the possibilities of motivating, fascinating, and experiential elements of virtual reality (VR) in a collaborative learning context, with a focus on…

Purpose: This study aimed to acquire a comprehensive understanding of the digital literacy skills possessed by first-year students and how they impact students' participation in online classes. Design/methodology/approach: This research was conducted using a quantitative method to investigate first-year students' digital literacy and its effect on…

Common Core State Standards (CCSS) were adopted by most states in the United States to improve academic rigor, which in turn is believed to better prepare graduating high school students for college and careers. Yet, it is not as well understood whether CCSS Initiative-aligned instruction potentially better prepares all students, thereby availing…