Supporting First-Generation College Students
Contributed By: Michelle Rossi
In the first of our meetings aimed at providing equitable access to education for all of our students, we explored promoting success for first-generation colleges students. Did you know that 42% of UC Davis undergraduate students identify as First-Gen (neither parent has earned a 4 year bachelor’s degree)? We all have First-Gen students in our classes, and research shows that instructional strategies designed to support these students really benefit ALL students.
Since this status is less visible than many ascribed statuses, we first discussed ways to recognize our first-generation students’ current, and perhaps unique, life experiences. Notably, there is much variation within this group as first-gen students are inclusive of all genders, all ethnicities, and all orientations. Often, these students have more challenges in terms of finances, meaning they may work many hours while enrolled or they may not understand how to navigate the financial aid system. They are, thus, often less connected to the university, while still needing to be culturally dexterous enough to switch between two worlds – one at the university and one at home.
In order to best support these students, we examined the following effective teaching strategies:
1. Explain your expectations
2. Apply principles of adult learning to your teaching
3. Make your assignments and exams more transparent and culturally inclusive
4. Promote social integration
5. Encourage students to seek help and feedback
These strategies are unpacked in a .pdf on the following website:
Resources:
- Scholarly Articles
- Suggestions for Teaching First-Gen Students
- UC and National News
- Resources for First-Gen Students
In addition, the CEE website offers more in-depth resources:
Just In Time Teaching
- Supporting First Generation University Students (4 part series)
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