Survey shows diverse student learning environment at LU
11/10/2008
Results from a national survey of college students released today are helping Lamar University identify areas of strength in engaging students and areas to focus on as part of continuing efforts to better serve students and the community.
Lamar University was one of 722 four-year colleges and universities across the United States to participate in the National Survey of Student Engagement this year. The survey gathered information from randomly selected first-year and senior students at each institution.
“We’re using the information to design and implement programs to help faculty get students more seriously engaged in their learning at Lamar University,” said Tom Matthews, assessment coordinator.
One area of strength for Lamar University was in the percentage of students who reported engaging in serious conversations with students of other races or ethnicities. This relates directly to Lamar’s mission statement, which reads in part “educating a diverse student body, preparing students for leadership and lifelong learning in a multicultural world.”
According to survey results, 54 percent of LU freshmen reported such conversations, which were classified as an “enriching educational experience,” compared to 51 percent at other southwestern public universities. Among seniors, 64 percent of LU students reported such conversations compared to 56 percent at peer universities in the Southwest.
Lamar also received high marks for relationships between students and faculty members. Among seniors, 81 percent of LU students positively rated their relationships with faculty members compared to 73 percent at other southwestern public universities.
As part of its accreditation by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Lamar University is required to implement a program to improve the student learning experience. Matthews said the survey results would be a valuable tool in developing such programs.
