Some programs, such as advanced math and science courses, are considered “barrier” or “weed out” studies because they are underrepresented by minorities and lower income students. Increasing student engagement can help empower students to push through when coursework in these and other subjects becomes challenging. Instructors who are noticing their students regularly struggling, and even dropping out of programs, can take steps to improve empowerment by getting students engaged early on.

Understanding Why Some Students Struggle

Why do students struggle in these barrier studies, or in any classroom for that matter? Psychological Science polled college faculty and administration and were given these reasons:

  • Poor reasoning and critical thinking skills
  • Learning disabilities
  • Individual learning style differences
  • Poor understanding of instructor expectations
  • Poor study habits
  • Life circumstances
  • Psychological or addiction problems

Understanding these reasons can help instructors as they push toward increasing student engagement and empowerment.

The Pillars of Student Empowerment

In order for students to succeed, educators must be able to overcome these common problems. Freeman Hrabowski, president of the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, stated in a 2013 TED Talk that he believes the solution starts with high expectations for students clearly outlined by the instructors. Then, instructors need to strive to build a sense of community in the classroom. Educators also need to model research skills, because researchers produce researchers. Finally, successful students have a strong sense of self. By embracing these four pillars, educators can help students overcome the reasons for their struggles and learn to excel.

Using Technology for Increasing Student Engagement

For instructors trying to create a classroom where all students are empowered to succeed, technology can provide a solution. Echo360 allows instructors to create a more interactive classroom. Our student engagement tools allow instructors to ask questions during a lecture and get immediate responses from all students. Instructors can then track student participation to pinpoint students who do not feel empowered, then use that data to reach out to those students. The program also creates a sense of community by freeing time for group discussion and activities. With Echo360, educators can be successful at increasing student engagement and improve success in barrier studies.

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