The Agile Academic Advisor

Abstract

Two age-old questions about the nature of our interactions with college students arise phoenix-like during these discussions. The first-What is academic advising?--can and has been addressed empirically, but answers provide little solace to those supporting a broader role for advisors. The second-Who should do academic advising?-is a matter of policy and philosophy and can be approached only indirectly.

Advising and the Consumption Metaphor in Higher Education

“…The debate about the utility of the consumption metaphor as it applies to higher education is not new, nor is it a debate limited to the United States. Those fond of using the consumption metaphor typically perceive education as something consumed by students (Barrows & Murray, 1997;Beronja & Bee, 1989;Constanti & Gibbs, 2004;De Vita & Case, 2003;Driscoll & Wicks, 1998;Groccia, 1997;Kramer, 2001;Levidow, 2002;McCulloch, 2009;Molesworth et al, 2009;Nicholls et al, 1995;Pitman, 2000;Propp & Rhodes, 2006;Severy, et al 1996;Severy et al, 1994;Scott, 1999;Spicuzza, 1992;Spokane, 1994;White, 2007;Yudof, 2003;). Those less enchanted with the student-as-consumer metaphor raise several concerns.…”