Michelle Gray and Analisa Gifford recently presented the results of our Academic Standing Survey at Faculty Inservice. We were asked to share these findings with a wider audience.
This survey collected feedback from students who were not in Good Academic Standing, focusing on their challenges, perceptions of RCC’s support and recommendations for improvement. On average, each term during the past academic year, about 15% of credit students were not in Good Academic Standing.
Key Findings
1. Student Challenges
- Work/Life/School Balance – Most frequently cited barrier.
- Course Difficulty & Under-preparedness – Many students noted struggling with academic readiness.
- Time Management – A recurring theme, especially among working students.
- Limited Resources/Support – Some students felt resources were not easily accessible.
2. Student Perceptions of Support
- The majority feel instructors and staff are supportive, though some remain neutral or disagree.
- Students emphasized that faculty communication and understanding are critical to their persistence.
3. Recommendations for Faculty Connection
- More direct communication (emails, check-ins, office hours – changing the name to Student Hours and offering Zoom options).
- Greater flexibility and understanding of outside responsibilities.
- Proactive outreach to identify and assist struggling students (refer to SOS).
- Learn who your students are and what they are facing
- Some students reported being satisfied with current faculty practices.
4. Additional Student Feedback
- Positive sentiment: Many expressed appreciation for RCC instructors and overall support.
- Areas for improvement:
- Better navigation of financial aid.
- More resources for balancing work and school.
- Consistent expectations across courses.
Overall Takeaway
RCC students recognize and appreciate supportive faculty and staff. The biggest opportunities for improvement are enhancing proactive communication, supporting balance of responsibilities and ensuring access to resources that align with student needs.
Sample of student responses:
If I could recommend a way for my instructor to connect with me, I would…
- Ask that they send me an email. Ask me how I’m doing, how I feel about the class, how I’m doing with assignments and tests, studying, etc. An email, even if just one, can make the difference.
- I thought it was helpful when my English professor walked us all to his office and explained office hours there. It made it easier to know where to go and made it more approachable.
- Nothing, I love my instructor, he is great. He gives the instructions well and they are easily understandable. He gets back on emails quickly and gives good advice.
- I plan to attend class in person next term. I believe meeting my professors in person would be a strong incentive to reach out to help when needed.
- I think it would help if the instructor would have one-on-one time with students to familiarize with students and their situations and their struggles.
- As an online student, having a video greeting from my instructor would make me feel more connected.
Is there anything else you would like add?
- I’m grateful for the opportunity to become a student at RCC.
- I attend RCC Table Rock Campus in White City, and I am truly thankful for all the support I’ve received. The office staff, advisors and financial aid team have been incredibly helpful, always taking the time to guide me and answer my questions. I am especially grateful to my diesel program instructor, Mr. Kale, who goes the extra mile to explain concepts and give us the tools and knowledge we need for a successful career. He teaches real-world skills that prepare us for the industry. And of course, I can’t forget Mr. Ken, who is always cheering us on and offering his help. I am proud to be part of RCC and appreciate everything they do for their students.
- Thank you for taking your time with someone who might not have had this opportunity before. This might not mean all that much to you, but it means so much more for me. So thank you greatly.
- STEVE VANDEVER IS THE BEST!!!
- No. Love this school and all the instructors I’ve had thus far!
For more information, please contact Michelle Gray or Analisa Gifford by email or on Teams.