ERIC Number: EJ1360989
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2022
Pages: 17
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0271-9517
EISSN: EISSN-2330-3840
Messaging Matters: The Impact of Advising Micromessages on Student Affect and Behavior across Diverse University Campuses
Buchanan, Tonya M.; Brown, Aaron; Chirco, Patrizia; Klein, Danielle; Purgason, Ashley M.
NACADA Journal, v42 n2 p45-61 2022
Across two experimental university studies, we examined how small changes in language embedded in advising communications influence student outcomes (e.g., support, persistence) and explored the utility of advising micromessages congruent with growth mindset and appreciative advising for diverse student populations. We found that micromessages embedded within hypothetical advisor emails increased anticipated positive student outcomes, including feelings of support and persistence. In line with our hypotheses and attribution-based intervention research with nontraditional and/or marginalized students, the positive effect of micromessaging appears greater for first-generation students and students of color. This research highlights opportunities to shape consequential student outcomes through small, strategic language changes. Empowering advisors with thoughtfully crafted language improves students' sense of support and persistence and may reduce achievement gaps.
Descriptors: Academic Advising, Electronic Mail, Language Usage, Communication Strategies, Student Behavior, Positive Attitudes, Beliefs, Self Concept, Student Diversity, Persistence, First Generation College Students, Minority Group Students, Undergraduate Students
National Academic Advising Association. NACADA Executive Office, Kansas State University, 2323 Anderson Avenue Suite 225, Manhattan, KS 66502-2912. Tel: 785-532-5717; Fax: 785-532-7732; e-mail: nacada@ksu.edu; Web site: http://www.nacada.ksu.edu
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A