A new
Ithaka S+R research project aims to determine whether campus libraries could do
more to help community-college students complete their studies. The first phase
of the project discovered that libraries and students aren’t always on the same
page.
For
libraries, “student success” often has been defined by measurable academic data,
such as the number of students who attain degrees or certificates, according to
EdSurge’s account of the project. On the other hand, researchers found students
viewed success in school in terms of personal satisfaction with their work and
their lives—a much more nebulous goal.
However,
when students were asked about ongoing challenges, their answers provided some
insights into how libraries could lend a hand to help them. Many students reported
that applying for financial aid was confusing and they were having trouble
paying for normal living expenses. Quite a few students were working parents
who said they struggled to find affordable care for their kids so they could
attend classes or study.
The
second phase of the research project is looking more closely at how some campus
libraries are already addressing these problems, either directly or indirectly.
For example, one library provides private study spaces where students can do
classwork while their children play, so they don’t have to pay a sitter.
Another library tackles the problem from a different stance, requiring all
first-year students to meet with a librarian to review library services to
ensure they’re aware of available resources and won’t be intimidated to ask for
help.
The
final report is expected to be out in mid-2019.
