Understanding and Supporting Non-traditional Students

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Oluwaseun Adekeye: 00:01

Welcome to the Student Activities Online Leadership Toolbox. Today on Inspired Leadership, I will be talking about understanding and supporting non traditional students. Start by recognizing who non traditional students are. Identify the different experiences they bring. Non traditional student may be over the age of 24, balancing work, raising families, commuting or returning to school after years away from education.

Oluwaseun Adekeye: 00:34

Examining the challenges they face. Many non traditional students must navigate unfamiliar systems, new technology, and academic expectations that may feel overwhelming. Adjusting to tools like online platforms and campus resources can create an additional learning curve. Consider the impact of life responsibilities. Many non traditional students manage full time jobs, family commitments, and financial challenges while pursuing their education.

Oluwaseun Adekeye: 01:11

These responsibilities can limit their time, reduce their availability, and affect their ability to fully engage in the college experience. Recognize the importance of support systems. Encourage connections with family, friends, and peers. Strong support systems help students stay motivated and persist through challenges. Take a moment to understand the broader picture.

Oluwaseun Adekeye: 01:42

The national data shows that many students no longer fit the traditional model. A significant number work full time, attend part time or support dependent. This reinforces the need to adapt how we support and engage students. Now shift your focus to the classroom experience. Observe how non traditional students approach learning.

Oluwaseun Adekeye: 02:08

Many prefer to be self directed, value practical applications, and seek relevance in their coursework. They want to understand how they learn, connect, and real world situation apply to their knowledge. Acknowledge their experience. Non traditional students bring knowledge, skills and perspective shaped by life and work. Identify barriers, time constraints, financial challenges, and competing responsibilities.

Oluwaseun Adekeye: 02:41

These can limit participation and academic success. Address these barriers by promoting flexibility, understanding and access to resources. Now, take action to enhance their experiences. Encourage students to connect with advisors and support services, guide them to ask questions, seek feedback, and build relationship with faculty early in the semester. Promote involvement.

Oluwaseun Adekeye: 03:12

Suggest joining study groups, workshops, and campus programs. These opportunities help students build connections and strengthen their understanding of course materials. Encourage balance. Help students create schedules that prioritize academics while also making time for personal well-being. Reinforce the importance of maintaining both productivity and health.

Oluwaseun Adekeye: 03:39

As you continue to support non traditional students, adapt your approach, listen actively, provide guidance, create inclusive environments that recognize diverse experiences and needs. And that is it. Let's review what was presented today. We identified who non traditional students are, explored the challenges they face, and discussed strategies to support their success and engagement. Remember to stay intentional.

Oluwaseun Adekeye: 04:10

When you recognize differences, support growth and create inclusive spaces, you help all students succeed. This podcast was presented by student activities at Minnesota State University, Manketo. Thank you for participating.