The Three Tier Model of Student Independence:

By Matt Long

© 2008

Creating a desirable residential experience without expensive

renovations

A practical Student Development application

Why do we need a new model?

• Current models do not provide practical application

• “though the theory is appealing in the abstract, it is extremely difficult to put into practice.” -Astin

• Current models only help us understand development.

• But not necessarily how we can effectively influence development and increase retention.

The Trend of Consumerism• Students today are acting (and being

treated) more and more like consumers

• $10,000 for landscaping…Beautiful but who cares?

• Higher Education is no longer a privilege but a commodity to be purchased

• Parents are acting as catalysts in this developmental path

New Construction and Renovation

• Major renovations and new construction are expensive

• There is a growing disconnect between what students “want” and what they “need”

• Anything we build or update must have a sustainability plan

Sustainability

• Instead of the more expensive options, plan for long term sustainability

• Small, inexpensive, highly visible projects have more impact

• Renovations done on a small scale and a regular rotation

Sustainability + Programming = Success

• The physical structures must be sustainable long term AND

• We must implement an effective programming model THEN

• We will increase student satisfaction and retention

• Stop thinking Macro and start thinking Micro

The three tier model

• Designed to meet student needs

• Be intentional about inclusivity

• Realize retention will never be 100%

• “The measure of our effectiveness is the positive difference we make in the life of ONE college student”. –Larry Smith

The Three Tiers

1. First Year Students

2. Transition Students

3. Semi-Independent Students

The Goal

To foster each student’s

development while in College to help

every student achieve individual

independence

The First Year Student

Students in their first year have a unique set of needs that must be fulfilled in order to be successful.

• Basic Life Skills

• Involvement

• Pride/Ownership

• Academic success

• First Year Center

Transition Students

• This period of transition is critical to students and directly relates to their ability to persist to graduation.

• If students have a successful first year, they begin a natural transition period during which they must be allowed to gain further independence.

• Theme Housing

Semi-Independent

• Students who have solidified their identity through their College experience.

• The College has an obligation to give them an increased level of independence while providing for their needs.

• Independent livingopportunities

Staffing and Collaboration

Identifying the appropriate staff members and obtaining collective buy-in for programmatic success of each tier.

Collaboration between:

• Admissions

• Faculty

• Student Activities

• SGA & RHAstudent interaction!

The more effective we are at meeting our student’s needs,

through sustainability and programming, the more transparent our physical structures will become.

Discussion