HUA: The Catalyst (Why FYE?)
In the 2018 Institutional Self Assessment Evaluation Report for Accreditation (ACCJC), Hawaiʻi CC identified our commitment to “improving experiences for students at their most vulnerable stage: their first year at the College.” The goal was to enhance retention and persistence rates, and ultimately degree attainment. Supporting Information: What All First-Year Students Should Know" article.
HAʻALELE: The Departure (Committing to FYE)
Following the example of many other colleges nationally, the College decided to build a First Year Experience that would orient students both academically, socially and culturally for success at the college. We aim to do this in the following, coordinated ways that include 1) instruction, 2) student services, and 3) academic support services.
HUAKAʻi: The Journey (to FYE)
Since 2018, Hawaiʻi CC has done planning, preparation and adjustments for our kauhale. Even delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, this did not deter our commitment to enhancing the student experience. We looked at how to create an FYE model that would fit the needs of our students and the communities we serve.
The FYE approach for Hawaiʻi CC includes:
- High engagement (HE) strategies that will be used to strengthen students’ writing, reading, organization, collaboration and questioning skills.
- The Kaʻao Framework that will leverage cultural connections to the academic journey. This includes extended learning and support activities based on developing an awareness of Hawaiʻi, its environment, kinship relationships, and place-based knowledge.
- Knowledge of both campus and community resources that will provide well-rounded support to students.
HOʻINA: The Return (Implementation of FYE)
We are proud to announce the launch of our Hawaiʻi CC First Year Experience in Fall 2021.
These components will be incorporated in Instructional, Student Services, and Academic Support Services.
Instructional:
- Students in their first semester at the college will take two courses
Student Services:
- Students will be greeted with an in-depth orientation which includes creating social bonds, connecting to College and academic success resources, introducing Title IX / Pau Violence, and developing relevant technology skills.
- Student Services will provide advising, counseling, and extension classes on non-cognitive skills, financial planning, scholarship opportunities, etc.
Academic Support services:
- Academic support will participate in classes and extended learning opportunities and activities outside of classes to reinforce learning and skill building, including peer mentors that have been trained in Ka`ao and high engagement approaches to academics.