University of Michigan

Students who are actively involved in their own learning and development are more likely to be successful in college. Colleges and universities offer students a wide variety of opportunities both inside and outside the classroom to become engaged with new ideas, people, and experiences. Institutions measure the effectiveness of these opportunities in a variety of ways to better understand what types of activities and programs students find the most helpful.

Following are the selected results from the 2005-06 National Survey of Student Engagement (NSSE). The questions have been grouped together in categories that are known to contribute to student learning and development. The results reported below are based on the responses of seniors who participated in the survey.

Group Learning Experiences

82% percent of seniors worked with classmates on assignments outside of class.
64% of seniors tutored or taught other students
37% of seniors spent at least 6 hours per week participating in co-curricular activities such as student organizations and intramural sports

Active Learning Experiences

94% of seniors spent at least 6 hours per week preparing for class
38% of seniors worked on a research project with a faculty member
64% of seniors participated in an internship, practicum, or field experience
72% of seniors participated in community service or volunteer work
21% of seniors participated in study abroad
95% of seniors made at least one class presentation last year

Institutional Commitment to Student Learning and Success

93% of seniors believe this institution provides support for student success
59% of seniors rated the quality of academic advising at this institution as good or excellent
58% of seniors reported that this institution provided help in coping with work, family and other non-academic responsibilities
87% of seniors reported working harder than they thought they could to meet an instructor's standards or expectations

Student Satisfaction

89% of seniors would attend this institution if they started over again
89% of seniors rated their entire educational experience as good or excellent
80% of seniors reported that other students were friendly or supportive

Student Interaction with Campus Faculty and Staff

44% of seniors believed that the campus staff were helpful, considerate, or flexible
68% of seniors believed that faculty are available, helpful, or sympathetic
92% of seniors reported that faculty members provided prompt feedback on their academic performance
70% of seniors discussed readings or ideas with faculty members outside of class

Experiences with Diverse Groups of People and Ideas

65% of seniors reported that they often tried to understand someone else's point of view
88% of seniors reported their experience at this institution contributed to their understanding people of other racial and ethnic backgrounds
68% of seniors often had serious conversations with students of a different race or ethnicity