The First Year: Bridging Content and Experience for Online Adult Learners

With the rise of flexible learning modalities including hybrid and fully online programs, those seeking higher education opportunities now have more options than ever before. The present study was part of a larger effort by one university to develop strategies specifically aimed at improving the first-year student experience. Based on the results, this initiative is now recognized as a best practice and has been expanded across the university. As part of the First Year Student Progress (FYSP) strategic plan at a large, online institution, first-year classes within the university's Master's in Mental Health Counseling (MHC) program were targeted for this study. The sample consisted of nontraditional, adult learners enrolled in three first-year courses in Fall Quarter (test group) and the previous Fall Quarter (comparison group). Preview videos were developed and embedded in the first-, second-, and third-term courses (to preview second-, third-, and fourth-term courses, respectively). A cross-functional team reviewed each target course (Ethics and Legal Issues in Counseling, Lifespan Development, Techniques of Counseling) and determined the key features to highlight in the videos. Alumni were interviewed about challenges, realizations, and applications of the course material in their future courses and professions. After viewing the video, students were asked to complete a brief survey about their evaluation of the preview video and describe any impact it may have had on their perceptions of the next course and their likelihood to enroll. The quantitative results suggested a positive impact and survey data shed additional light on the qualitative outcomes of the preview videos.