Learner Challenges

Different cultures also value different types of community interaction, which can create a challenge for minority students when adapting to an institutional culture and community. Museus (2011) also identifies that competitive, independently driven programs and campus cultures can result in increased dropout rates for minority students. Finding ways to incorporate cultural heritage and involve students in valuing cultural diversity within a campus setting can increase minority student engagement on campus and reduce feeling of cultural separation. Museus (2011) also discussed the value of “humanizing” the educational experience by supporting and acknowledging students and faculty for more than just their role at the institution. It is important that the institution allow students and staff to be human and not drive the notion that the educational experience must be serious at all times. It is important for minority students to feel as though they have an outlet to discuss their concerns and that their voice will be heard. Many of the institutions discussed in Museus’ (2011) study were also making concerted efforts to provide services and support targeted at minority students including advising, administrator support, and cultural centers that promoted minority student engagement and persistence (Museus, 2011).

Female students currently make up 60% of the college student population. With unique needs and experiences institutions must stay focused on how to best support these learners. Over the last century the higher education industry has seen a significant increase in female students when colleges once consisted mostly of male students. Female students have a number of outside influences that impact their likelihood to persist including family and family-related responsibilities. Research suggests that many college level males do not have children at home or a family to care for, but many female learners choose either to pursue their education in...