Helping Mavericks stay on track
The University of Texas at Arlington is committed to helping students combat the learning loss that some sustained during the pandemic. Also known as the “summer slide", learning loss is a regression in academic achievement that happens while students are away from school.
UT Arlington has been proactive in helping students build confidence to return to learning, with various programs such as Summer Bridge and Success U helping first-year Mavericks develop a sense of belonging and build a support network as they transition to college. Expanded academic support such as extra tutoring and academic counseling also will be available this fall to help students rebuild their academic and social strengths.
“We encourage new and returning students to get engaged and involved on campus early, using our resources or getting connected with student activities, tutoring and academic help within the first few weeks of the semester,” said Ashley Purgason, associate vice provost in the Division of Student Success. “This will set them up for a less stressful semester and great start to their academic careers.”
Robin Jocius, associate professor of curriculum and instruction in the College of Education, said UTA is preparing to support incoming freshmen in new and innovative ways.
“Freshmen will have to get used to the rigors of college coursework as well as resuming social life,” Jocius said. “It’s important to take advantage of all of the resources UT Arlington has to offer for incoming freshmen.”
Holly Hungerford-Kresser, associate professor of curriculum and instruction, said students gained valuable new skills during 18 months of learning in new modalities.
“We’ve all had to practice extreme flexibility, which is a skill that will help everyone tremendously as they either enter or continue at UTA,” Hungerford-Kresser said. “Many students had the opportunity to practice important skills that will help at the university level, such as time management and proficiency with various technologies.”
The two professors shared advice for students to start the semester off right:
- Take time at the beginning of the semester to organize course deadlines, assignments and tasks.
- Give yourself time to develop a “new normal” school routine.
- Notetaking skills are invaluable. Learn to use course notes to revisit, review and retain information.
- Make room in your schedule for uninterrupted study time.
- Evaluate more than just the grades you are getting. Take time to consider if you are comprehending the reading or having issues with labs.
- Meet with teaching assistants, professors or advisors to make sure you are staying on track in a course.
- Keep an eye on your field of study and see the ways in which the profession might be changing post-pandemic.
- Ask questions and don’t be afraid to lean on others.
“At UTA, we understand learning loss is a real concern as students come back to or start their college classes for the first time,” Purgason said. “The past year has been very difficult, but we truly have incredibly motivated and talented students attending UTA this fall.”