College Student Development in Digital Spaces

Abstract

This chapter explores how digital and social technologies may be impacting the developmental journeys of traditionally aged college students. It provides important conceptual distinctions and explores the application of college student development theory in digital spaces along with implications for practice and inquiry.

Leadership Development in Digital Spaces Through Mentoring, Coaching, and Advising

“…In order to clarify the path to leadership learning, educators in practice must familiarize themselves with the trends in digital use among their targeted population. For example, Brown () describes trends that demonstrate college students have greater immersion in social media than other demographic groups, noting trends in smartphone use, internet access, and engagement on mobile devices. It is also important to examine how social media, digital tools, and technology influence the lived experiences of college students (Brown, ).…”

“…For example, Brown () describes trends that demonstrate college students have greater immersion in social media than other demographic groups, noting trends in smartphone use, internet access, and engagement on mobile devices. It is also important to examine how social media, digital tools, and technology influence the lived experiences of college students (Brown, ). In practice, educators must identify the specific digital spaces where students are receiving information and the frequency in which they utilize such forums.…”

“…() describe the ability of universities to influence and shape curricular and cocurricular offerings in order to encourage student engagement. Brown () explains the change in the landscape of such engagement due to digital technology and social media technology. Brown challenges educators to review assumptions and theories about engagement as it relates to college students, noting “the unique aspects of social and digital technologies and their ascendance during a crucial period of learning and development” (p. 59).…”

“…Junco () substantively discusses the positive outcomes of directing students toward particular uses of social media as a means of impacting college outcomes such as community building, deepening relationships between student affairs staff and students, improving response to concerns, and improved experiences of campus integration. Brown () introduces the concept of digitized development, “which is the psychological process of growth and self‐learning that occurs when digital contexts are introduced” (p. 62). Digitized development is not limited to learning in only online contexts, but rather is articulated as a theory that frames how online actions and relationships can impact offline relationships and the symbiotic nature of these relationships (Brown, ).…”

“…Brown () introduces the concept of digitized development, “which is the psychological process of growth and self‐learning that occurs when digital contexts are introduced” (p. 62). Digitized development is not limited to learning in only online contexts, but rather is articulated as a theory that frames how online actions and relationships can impact offline relationships and the symbiotic nature of these relationships (Brown, ). Enacting a system of mentoring, coaching, and advising that utilizes social media and digital tools as agents of interaction presents robust opportunities for leadership development, as well as to improve student success and sense of belonging.…”