How to Create An Online Success Coaching Program

Description  Challenge - How to support students through an online peer coaching program Lack of connection with students who often feel lost and isolated, especially during the pandemic Attrition issues associated with lackluster academic performance Programming needs for at-risk students Staffing issues related to supporting students Key Takeaway Participants will understand how to create or transition to an online peer coaching program to expand their ability to support their students' success journey. Overview Students understand the challenges other students face and are great resources to help them become successful in college. This online Peer Coaching program provides a unique service to assist students in their journey to success by providing opportunities to develop academic strategies, set goals, and manage time and occasions to discuss behaviors and habits that may hinder their success. This webinar outlines how to create and sustain an online Peer Coaching program, from recruitment and training to monitoring and reporting.The University of Central Arkansas Success Coaching Program began in the spring of 2015 as a Pilot Program. With positive results from that semester, the program was fully operational by the fall of that year. As a result of COVID-19, the program has now shifted to a fully online resource. Students who are on Academic Alert or Probation are required to meet with Peer Coaches. However, PCs are available for all students, especially first-time freshmen. We also offer to coach specialized populations such as Honors, Student-Athletes, and transfer students. Each year approximately 500 students meet with a peer coach at least once.Data has proven that students who meet with PCs at least once, before the mid-point of the semester-end with higher semester GPAs than those who do not meet with a peer coach. We have also found that students marked "at-risk" in two or more courses during our Progress Reporting period are more likely to end the semester on Academic Alert or Probation. Lastly, students who attend two or more sessions and actively work on their goals return to good academic standing in fewer semesters than those who do not meet with a peer coach. Objectives Identify key components of an online success coaching program Identify specific populations of students to target for an online success coaching program Define the strategies coaches need to have positive impacts on the students they coach Describe options for programming content and delivery Discuss mechanisms to recruiting and training ideal students to serve as Peer Coaches Determine next steps for creating a new program or refining an existing program Who Should Attend Administration Student Services/Affairs Academic Support Services Advising Tutoring/Learning Support Any educator interested in learning more about online success coaching