We investigated changes in students' reported sense of community in the context of a one-semester first-year seminar course using the Community and School Community Inventory (CSCI) research instrument across two years with differing instructional formats. We report a statistically significant increase in students' sense of perceived classroom…

This paper summarizes results of a study of 105 student-athletes enrolled in a first-year experience course. Students were asked, "What is the biggest unanswered question you have about college?" Results indicated that students' most burning questions were related to academics; relatively few student responses were directly related to…

The responsibility for college success has historically rested with the student, but since the 1980s, educators have taken increasing ownership of this, designing structures that increase the likelihood of learning, success, and retention. These efforts have included a variety of initiatives--first year seminars, learning communities,…