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This article discusses the top 10 trends shaping and changing in-person and online student orientations in 2024. Each trend is data-driven and has a story behind it.
For first-year or returning students, colleges and higher-education institutions try to ensure a great onboarding experience - as it helps them transition into a new and important phase of their lives.
This introductory phase is called Student Orientation. If you work in college orientation or management, you probably know about it already. But did you know just how swiftly student orientation is changing?
Reports suggest that the standard and student expectations for orientation are much higher today. And as with anything, you need to learn and adapt to the changing trends to stay ahead. But are you following these trends? Have you seen other institutions practice them?
Let's learn about some of the trends shaping student orientation today. These insights will enhance how you view student orientation and help you take better action.
Since online learning is becoming more popular each year, colleges and universities are realizing community building during virtual orientations via interactive icebreakers, live Q&A sessions, peer mentoring programs, and virtual social events.
Institutions like the University of Washington, for example, have recognized that promoting connections among students can significantly enhance their college experience and performance.
In fact, a major reason students don't participate in orientation is that they feel like they don't belong, online or offline.
Activities such as icebreakers and small group discussions are being integrated into online formats to help students bond. The importance of community is underscored by findings that show students participating in extracurricular activities primarily seek to meet new people and build friendships.
If your college or organization wants to incorporate community support in student orientations, choosing a smart college orientation solution is what you need.
That's where Orientus comes in - a data-driven approach to student orientation that has helped institutions boost student engagement by up to 40%. Find out how Orientus can help you imrove new student orientations by requesting a free demo today.
In 2024, there is a growing recognition that academic and social information are equally important for student success. Research shows that students value both aspects during orientation, with many expressing a desire for balanced content that addresses their academic needs and ensures social connections.
Take this recent article from a William Peace University student as an example. How it highlights the balance between academics and social life in college is expressive enough.
Institutions are responding by designing orientation programs that highlight academic resources—such as tutoring centers and study groups—alongside social opportunities like clubs and events.
This dual focus not only prepares students for academic challenges but also encourages them to engage socially. After all, we are all social creatures, so this is not something to ignore.
Despite the convenience of virtual orientations, most students still prefer in-person experiences. According to recent data, 80% of four-year college students rated their in-person orientation experience positively, compared to only 55% for virtual orientations. Colleges like the University of California are reintroducing in-person components such as guided tours and skill-building workshops to their orientation programs.
Unsurprisingly, students report feeling more comfortable accessing resources and making friends during in-person orientations, highlighting the importance of physical presence in building community.
Flexibility is becoming the new hallmark of effective orientation programs. Institutions are increasingly offering hybrid models that combine online and offline elements so that every student gets served well. For instance, some colleges provide asynchronous online modules alongside scheduled live events that allow students to engage with content at their own pace while still participating in live discussions.
This trend accommodates varying learning styles and acknowledges the diverse responsibilities students may have outside of academics.
Many colleges are adopting a 'just-in-time' education approach during student orientation. This strategy focuses on delivering essential information precisely when it is needed, rather than overwhelming new students with excessive details upfront. For example, instead of presenting all academic policies simultaneously, institutions may introduce key policies gradually throughout the semester as they become relevant.
This method helps reduce cognitive overload for new students while ensuring they stay informed about the more relevant aspects of their education at appropriate times.
Personalized learning experiences are gaining traction as institutions strive to meet individual student needs. Colleges can tailor orientation content based on students' interests and backgrounds by using technology such as AI-driven user profiling. For example, personalized learning paths allow students to choose workshops or sessions that align with their specific goals—academic advising or social networking opportunities.
This approach empowers students to take ownership of their educational journey from day one, leading to increased engagement and satisfaction.
Collecting feedback from students post-orientation is becoming critical for continuous improvement. Universities like Newcastle have implemented systematic feedback mechanisms where students can share their experiences and suggestions following orientation.
This practice not only helps institutions refine their programs but also demonstrates a commitment to student voices. By actively seeking input from participants, colleges can adapt their offerings to better meet the evolving needs of incoming students.
Peer mentoring is emerging as a vital component of orientation programs. Institutions such as Liberty University have recognized the benefits of connecting new students with upperclassmen who can provide guidance and support. Peer mentors help ease the transition into college life by sharing insights about navigating campus resources, managing coursework, and finding social connections.
Besides peer mentors, many universities are now assigning student leaders to buddy up with new students during orientation. With platforms like Orientus, student leaders can easily engage with new students directly through the software, guiding them through activities and providing personalized support.
This trend not only enhances new students' confidence but also fosters a culture of support within the campus community.
Mental health concerns are rising by the hour, so college orientation programs are increasingly including mental health resources in their offerings. Research indicates that over 60% of college students report experiencing mental health issues.
Colleges are responding by providing resources such as workshops on stress management, access to counseling services, and information about wellness initiatives during orientation.
Institutions are focusing on mental health early on to promote a setting where students receive both academic and emotional support. Strong mental health is the foundation for sustained learning and growth.
10. Integration of AI
It should go without saying that AI is the current trend with everything at the moment. The integration of artificial intelligence into student orientation processes is enhancing how institutions engage with new students. AI technologies can analyze data on student preferences and behaviors to create personalized experiences tailored to individual needs.
For instance, chatbots can provide instant answers to common questions about campus life or direct students to relevant resources during orientation. AI not only enhances efficiency but also ensures that students receive timely support as they navigate their new environment. A true game-changer.
During student orientation, students meet faculty, staff, and peers. They learn about campus resources, class schedules, and academic expectations. It's a way to make them feel comfortable and help them transition into college.
Online orientation offers flexibility and access from anywhere. However, it lacks face-to-face interaction and physical campus tours, which in-person sessions provide, which becomes a problem for socially withdrawn students.
In-person orientations allow students to explore the campus, meet peers directly, and engage in real-time activities. It's much more fun for them this way, and this personal interaction helps build relationships.
Peer mentors offer guidance based on experience. They help new students adjust faster by answering questions and providing support. In any case, good mentoring can go a long way in building self-confidence.
Student Orientation software is a tool schools use to manage, organize, and deliver orientation materials, sessions, and information to students.
Student orientation software helps simplify orientation processes, offers digital access to resources, and helps schools track student participation. It's an absolute convenience for both students and staff. So, why not give it a try? Discover a smarter way to orient with Orientus - GRTech's advanced student orientation software. Get a demo today and take the first step towards providing students the experience that they deserve.
Times are changing faster than ever. As higher education institutions, colleges, and universities adapt to the growing needs of students, online student orientation programs and software are increasingly becoming an unignorable point. What these ten trends shaping student orientation in 2024 tell us is the commitment to inclusivity, flexibility, and technology integration.
Image credits: Pixabay, Pexels
I'm a highly skilled project manager with extensive experience in the education technology industry. With a background in computer science and a passion for improving educational outcomes, I have dedicated my career to developing innovative software solutions that make learning more engaging, accessible, and effective.
