Academic advisors adapt their approach based on the needs and strengths of individual students. In some cases, they may use multiple approaches during one advising appointment. But now, as more institutions announce fall 2020 plans for online or hybrid learning, advisors need to adapt their in-office methods to a virtual environment. The good news is that going virtual is easy with the right virtual tools. Below are a range of advising approaches—from active to passive—with tactics for virtualizing advisor-student interactions. Also known as intrusive advising, this approach makes academic support staff responsible for student success. Not only do advisors initiate contact with students, they take the lead in telling students what to do. Proactive advising is an effective way to help first-year and first-generation students stay on track while developing a supportive, ongoing relationship with someone from the institution. The first step toward proactive virtual advising is proactive communication. Tactics include: As COVID-19 disrupts on-campus learning and services in 2020, proactive advising will be critical to keep at-risk students from falling behind or dropping out. Developmental advising aims to help students grow socially, emotionally, and cognitively. Rooted in student development theory, this approach requires advisors to partner with students to identify what they value personally and academically. As partners, advisors need to track students’ progress from one appointment to the next. They also need to help students develop, implement, and monitor short- and long-term goals. Tactics include: Whether advising students online or on campus, technology makes it easier to keep tabs on their interactions with other service groups, and to follow their progress. As an approach to academic advising, coaching emphasizes students’ personal responsibility for their success. Advisors are there to help students explore their options and create a plan of action. And, as coaches, they offer feedback and encouragement throughout the process. To help students help themselves online, advisors need to eliminate barriers by making online support more visible, flexible, and accessible. Tactics include: When it comes to advising approaches, one size doesn’t fit all. But the virtual tactics outlined above can be customized for any approach you use—from prescriptive advising to appreciative advising, and everything in between. To learn about ConexED virtual tools for online advising and support, submit your contact information in the form below.How to Adapt Academic Advising to a Virtual Environment
Proactive Advising: Reach Out Before Students Need Help
Developmental Advising: Partner With Students to Achieve Success
Advising as Coaching: Help Students Help Themselves
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