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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