Abstract:

Students identified as “at risk” are students who are repeating a course and/or struggling with course content. They also often lack confidence, time management and organisational skills. As always, higher education institutions are looking for ways to support their struggling students to succeed academically. As universities strive to increase retention rates, it is necessary to have effective tailor made support programs that are both connected to students’ learning needs and empower students to ask for support when needed. Central to a successful support program, is the belief that all students can succeed with the proper support.

This session will describe why and how a student support program known as “The 5th Hour” was created to give “at risk” students much needed academic support. The target population was enrolled in EAP (English for Academic Purposes) courses in a foundations program in the United Arab Emirates. Key components that contributed to the success of the program include choosing the right faculty, providing online tools and resources to support students outside of class hours, liaising with students’ lecturers and regular faculty/student contact. The goal was to encourage independent learning and increase student participation in classes.

Participants will gain insights into the development of the 5th hour, student’s perspectives of this approach and the results of students’ evaluations. Finally, presenters will identify the challenges and rewards for the faculty who set up and administered The 5th Hour.

Keywords:

Retention, support program, EAP, online, students, faculty.