Why Parents of Undergraduates Matter to Higher Education

Abstract

This sourcebook provides readers with a rationale and a strategy for working with parents of college students. Several themes emerge. This chapter identifies some of these themes and suggests titles for further research, many of which were already noted in the individual chapters.Several chapters highlight the changing demographics of the undergraduate student population as well as the changing dynamics of their families. Institutions must pay attention to the institution-student-parent relationship to assure accuracy and consistency of messages, policies, and programs. In addition, institutions must assess how well they provide for the needs of students with various backgrounds, needs, and experiences. On many campuses, today' s students do not look like the students of the past. Likewise, families are dramatically different. Although this sourcebook emphasizes the challenges associated with this increasing diversity, institutions must assess how successfully policies and programs support the academic experience of all students. This singular focus on academic success should transcend the differences inherent in today' s student populations.Two especially salient books provide insights for practitioners seeking to learn more about the changing nature of student demographics and values. NEW DIRECTIONS FOR STUDENT SERVICES, no. 94, Summer 2001

The influence of organizational image on college selection: what students seek in institutions of higher education

“…Among other interpersonal sources, this study found that teachers were most influential. While this supports some previous research (Helwig, 2004;Moogan et al, 1999), it contradicts a preponderance of research that suggests that parents are most influential (Cabrera & LaNasa, 2000;Hossler et al, 1999;Ketterson & Bluestein, 1997;Otto, 2000;Paulsen, 1990;Sachs, 2002;Scott & Daniel, 2001). A possible explanation for this is that parents were not identified as a separate survey item.…”

“…Of the individuals from whom high school students sought guidance and information, parents are overwhelmingly identified as the single strongest influence during the school selection process (Bergerson, 2009;Cabrera & LaNasa, 2000;Helwig, 2004;Hossler et al, 1999;Ketterson & Bluestein, 1997;Moogan, Baron, & Harris, 1999;Otto, 2000;Paulsen, 1990;Rowan-Kenyon, Bell, & Perna, 2008;Sachs, 2002;Scott & Daniel, 2001). Parental involvement has many components.…”

The Retention Challenge—Should We Include Parents?

“…Miao () points out that “Ongoing budget cuts, combined with stagnating graduation rates and a rising national demand for highly educated workers, make it increasingly important for states to invest in completion” (1). Universities today are charged with the task of improving persistence, and ultimately graduation rates, without receiving additional resources; consequently, existing resources must be maximized (Carney‐Hall ; McKeown‐Moak ; Salas and Alexander ; Scott and Daniel ; THEC ).…”

Enriching the Diversity of the Engineering Workforce: Addressing Missed Opportunities to Support Student Transition from a Two- to a Four-Year Institution

“…Hernandez 20 addressed the importance of family involvement in Hispanic students' retention and argued development of parent orientation programs to provide their parents with opportunities to meet with college staff and to familiarize with the college setting, so they can understand the academic rigor and institution/college goals and provide appropriate support for students 19,20,21,22 .…”