Student engagement tied to career prep

In the wake of the pandemic, faculty faced significant challenges in keeping students engaged in fully online environments. While the return to in-person and hybrid formats was expected to improve student interest, the National Survey of Student Engagement found that many students remained disengaged, particularly due to a lack of connection between coursework and careers. A survey by Wiley revealed that more than half of undergraduates struggled to stay engaged and retain course material. Students emphasized the need for real-world applications, experiential learning, and support for professional certifications. Unfortunately, access to such opportunities remains limited, with only a third of students finding internships easily. Initiatives like Break Through Tech have shown success in helping underrepresented groups secure internships, but these efforts are not yet widespread. Students also feel less prepared for the job market compared to faculty perceptions, citing gaps in job-related and presentation skills. For students, finding meaningful work is as crucial as job opportunities, with many prioritizing making a positive impact over potential pay or job availability in their chosen fields.

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“Returning to in-person instruction hasn’t solved the problem of disengagement even if students are happy to be back to ‘normal,’” the report says.