Retention Recommendations For Faculty

The faculty at UVU are committed to facilitating a successful transition to college for all incoming students through an intentional first-year experience that: 

Introduces students to faculty who mentor and model engaged learning.

Fosters habits of academic inquiry that are foundational for life-long learning. 

Emphasizes meaningful interactions, helping students to develop an identity with the UVU community.

Cultivates students’ sense of responsibility and accountability for their education.

Encourages understanding of and commitment to civic responsibility. 

The recommendations, strategies, and philosophy statement on this page were developed by UVU’s Faculty Connections & Academic Experience committee, a committee comprised of faculty members representing each of UVU’s colleges and schools.

Recommendations

  • Post midterm grades
    All faculty teaching freshman courses and other courses with a high failure rate are strongly encouraged to provide and post midterm grades on Banner. By posting midterm grades, students are more familiar with where they are at, and support system across the university may be able to access the most up-to-date grades and reach out to students in need. 
  • Utilize student-centered pedagogy
    Cultivate your students’ sense of responsibility and accountability for their education. 
  • Set and adhere to regular office hours
    Encourage students to ask questions outside of class and give them your full attention when they drop by. 
  • Foster opportunities for meaningful academic and social interaction with students outside the classroom by:
    • Mentoring students outside of class. 
    • Participating regularly in your college or school’s student-oriented events (open houses, Dean’s “Meet & Greet,” etc.).  
    • Providing club leadership. 
  • Sponsor service learning
    Increase student understanding of, and commitment to, civic responsibility. 
  • Lead student research teams
    Provide additional mentoring opportunities and ways to model engaged scholarship processes.
Early AlertAn instructor explains a concept to a student standing a whiteboard.
Start of Semester Retention RecommendationsA staff member meets with two students.