Category: Blog

  • Maximize Digital Advertising For Language Learning Programs

    Maximize Digital Advertising For Language Learning Programs

    Reading Time: 10 minutes

    Language learning institution’s growth is projected to increase in the coming years. From 2024 to 2030, the global language learning market is predicted to expand at a compound annual growth rate of 20%. Due to the globalization of the labor market, language learning is likely to be in high demand. 

    Though language learning is growing in popularity, for lasting success, your school must find effective ways to stand out among other language academies looking to boost their enrollment.  Digital advertising offers a broad spectrum of tools to attract students, but knowing how to maximize the impact of these strategies is key to success. At Higher Education Marketing, we’ve spent years refining approaches that yield measurable results for schools offering language learning programs. The following strategies offer actionable steps to elevate your ads targeting language students and attract the right prospects to your programs. Let’s explore!

    Want to create successful ad campaigns?

    Request a Free paid advertising consultation.

    Understanding the Unique Needs of Language Learners

    Language learners are a distinct group with varied motivations, backgrounds, and learning goals. Some are looking to learn a language for career advancement, while others may seek language acquisition for academic, travel, or personal reasons. Advertising that speaks directly to these needs requires a keen understanding of the diverse audience you aim to reach. One of the first ways to maximize the impact of digital advertising is through careful audience segmentation. Instead of promoting the same message across all channels, consider the specific motivations that drive different groups of learners and tailor your messaging accordingly.

    Segmenting audiences by factors such as age, occupation, location, and even language proficiency allows schools to create highly targeted campaigns. How does language impact advertising for schools? Simply put, it depends heavily on your organizational goals. If you’re looking to target professionals wanting to learn English for business purposes, the language in your ad copy should reflect the vocational value of your programs. On the other hand, copy-targeting students hoping to improve their French skills before an international exchange can be more casual and experience-focused. This approach ensures the content resonates more deeply with potential students, increasing the chances of conversion.

    effective ads for language learningeffective ads for language learning

    Do you need help launching your language school’s latest ad campaign? Reach out to discover how we can support you. 

    Leveraging Social Media Platforms to Build Authentic Engagement

    Social media is a powerful tool for language learning programs, offering an opportunity to create ongoing engagement with potential students. However, simply posting ads isn’t enough. The most successful social media campaigns foster a sense of community and engagement, which encourages followers to take the next step toward enrollment.

    For language schools, showcasing success stories is one way to build trust. Highlighting testimonials from former students, sharing video snippets of language immersion experiences, and offering short, valuable language tips can increase authenticity. Interactive content, such as live Q&A sessions or virtual language exchange events, can draw in potential students who want to see what learning at your institution feels like before they commit.

    Schools can also encourage user-generated content by asking current students to share their experiences online, providing social proof that can be far more persuasive than traditional ads. When students are shown engaging and relevant ad content on their social media feeds and in your school’s stories, they are much more likely to visit your site and perhaps even take the first step in your enrollment process.

    Example: Here, a leading language school, EF Education First uses Instagram to drive their organic traffic. In their post, they share valuable language acquisition tips, providing an English reading list for their students. Try using social media to share actionable language tips with your audience. This will drive engagement, boost your follower count, and broaden your digital reach.

    language learning advertising_strategieslanguage learning advertising_strategies

    Source: Instagram | EF Education First

    Creating Culturally Relevant Ads to Reach Global Audiences

    Language learning programs often attract an international audience, which means your digital ads must resonate across cultures. One way to do this is by crafting culturally relevant ads that speak directly to the experience of international students. The language and imagery used in ads should align with the cultural values of the target audience. For example, an ad targeting language students in the Asian market might highlight the importance of family and education, while an ad aimed at Latin American students might focus on community and connectivity.

    Schools should also consider creating ads in multiple languages to appeal to global audiences. You may be wondering how to go about this. For example, Can you target by language on Google Ads? Yes! Google Ads allows advertisers to create campaigns that specifically target users based on the language settings of their browser or device. You can set up your ads to appear in multiple languages, ensuring that they reach potential students who speak those languages. Additionally, you can create language-specific ad copy and landing pages, enhancing the relevance of your campaigns.

    Optimizing Paid Search Ads for Long-Tail Keywords

    One of the most effective ways to drive qualified traffic to your website is through paid search advertising. Language schools can take advantage of this by focusing on long-tail keywords that are specific to language learning. While broad keywords like “learn English” may have high competition, phrases like “intensive French courses for business professionals in Paris” or “Spanish language classes for travelers” are more targeted and tend to attract a highly motivated audience.

    Long-tail keywords may have lower search volumes, but they often result in higher conversion rates because they target users who already have a clear intent. This approach not only helps you to maximize your ad budgets but also ensures that the clicks you receive are more likely to turn into enrollments.

    ad targeting_language studentsad targeting_language students

    Source: Hutong School

    Example: Here, Hutong School uses the long-tail keyword: Global Chinese language school in their metadata. This targeted keyword is designed to attract students who not only want to learn Chinese but also want to do so at a global institution that welcomes students from all over the world. Specificity in keywords ensures higher quality leads who are specifically looking for you.

    Crafting Compelling Ad Copy That Speaks to Pain Points

    Effective ads for language learning and education go beyond promotion and address the specific challenges that potential students face. Whether it’s the fear of not being left behind in class or the worry about balancing language learning with other responsibilities, successful ads speak directly to these concerns.

    To craft compelling ad copy, start by identifying the pain points that your target audience experiences. Are they professionals concerned about fitting language classes into their busy schedules? Are they international students worried about mastering a new language before moving abroad? Once you’ve identified these challenges, your ads should provide solutions. Highlight the flexibility of your class schedules, emphasize the support systems you have in place for struggling students, or showcase how your programs help learners achieve fluency quickly.

    effective_ads_for language learningeffective_ads_for language learning

    Source: KCP International Japanese Language School

    Example: Here, KCP addresses a very common pain point for language learners in their ad copy. Many fear that it’s ‘too late’ to learn a new language as the experience can be expensive and time-consuming. KCP positions itself as the solution to this barrier, ensuring its audience that as long as they meet four basic criteria, learning Japanese is within reach for them.

    Using Retargeting to Capture Warm Leads

    Retargeting is one of the most powerful tools in digital advertising, particularly for language schools where prospective students may need time before making an enrollment decision. Retargeting campaigns allow schools to stay top-of-mind by showing ads to users who have already visited the school’s website or engaged with its content.

    Retargeting works particularly well for language learning programs because it targets individuals who are already interested in the subject but may not have been ready to commit when they first encountered the program. Your school can use this strategy to provide reminders about upcoming enrollment deadlines, promote special offers, or share new content that highlights the benefits of your courses.

    For instance, if a visitor left your site after viewing the course offerings but didn’t sign up, retargeting ads can remind them of the benefits of joining your program. This approach can be particularly effective when combined with personalized messaging, such as offering tailored suggestions based on the courses they viewed.

    Incorporating Video Content to Showcase Language Learning in Action

    Video ads offer a dynamic and authentic way to showcase your school’s programs. HEM’s tailored video ad services help you stand out, whether promoting a specific course or building brand awareness. From high-energy hype videos to authentic student interviews, we create compelling visuals that maximize visibility and generate results. How does that affect you as a language learning institution? 

    Video content is a particularly effective tool for language schools, offering prospective students a glimpse into the real-life experience of learning a new language. Whether it’s a classroom setting, a student testimonial, or a tutorial on language pronunciation, videos create an emotional connection that static ads often lack.

    To maximize the impact of your video content, ensure that it highlights the immersive, interactive nature of your language programs. Videos should showcase the benefits of learning in a dynamic environment where students can practice speaking in real-life scenarios. This builds excitement and helps prospective students visualize themselves succeeding in your program.

    Additionally, video ads on platforms like YouTube or social media can target specific audience segments. Language schools can use these platforms to create ads tailored to different learner types, such as professionals looking to learn a language for work or students hoping to study abroad.

    language_learning_advertising_strategieslanguage_learning_advertising_strategies

    Source: LSI Worldwide | YouTube

    Example: This promotional video presented by a school director highlights the unique selling points of their online learning system. The unique academic benefits of your programs are an excellent topic for your promotional videos – particularly when presented by a language expert within your faculty.  What makes your instruction style unique?

    Harnessing the Power of Influencer Marketing

    Language schools can also benefit from partnering with influencers, especially those passionate about language learning or travel. Influencers offer access to a built-in audience that already trusts their recommendations. By working with influencers who align with your institution’s values, language schools can reach potential students who may not have been aware of your programs.

    An effective influencer marketing campaign for a language school might include sponsored posts where the influencer shares their language learning journey, highlighting the value of enrolling in formal programs. Schools can also consider offering affiliate programs, allowing influencers to earn commissions for every student who enrolls through their recommendation.

    Utilizing Data Analytics to Refine Advertising Campaigns

    Data-driven decision-making is at the heart of successful digital advertising. Language schools must continually analyze their campaign’s performance to ensure they’re reaching the right audience and achieving optimal results. Tools like Google Analytics and Facebook Insights can provide valuable insights into which ads are performing well and which need to be adjusted.

    For example, schools can track metrics like click-through rates, conversion rates, and the cost per lead to determine the effectiveness of their campaigns. By continuously monitoring these metrics, schools can make data-driven decisions that maximize their return on investment. Adjustments might include refining audience targeting, improving ad copy, or reallocating the budget to the platforms that yield the highest returns.

    Offering Free Trials or Sample Lessons to Convert Prospects

    One of the most effective ways to convince prospective students to enroll in your language learning program is by offering a free trial or sample lesson. Language learning can be an intimidating prospect, and many students may hesitate to commit without knowing what to expect. By offering a no-obligation sample lesson, schools give potential students a taste of the learning experience, which can be enough to convert them into paying students.

    This strategy works particularly well in digital advertising campaigns where schools can drive traffic to a landing page offering the free trial. Ads promoting a “try before you buy” approach can alleviate apprehension about committing to a full program.

    language learning advertising strategieslanguage learning advertising strategies

    Source: WuKong Education Online | YouTube

    Example: WuKong Education Online offers a trial class to attract their prospects. Trials are an excellent way to convert leads and are particularly effective for online academies. 

    By implementing these language learning advertising strategies, your school can significantly enhance the effectiveness of your digital advertising campaigns. At Higher Education Marketing, we believe that understanding the unique needs of language learners, leveraging innovative tools, and continuously refining your approach is key to driving enrollment and building lasting connections with students.

    Want to create successful ad campaigns?

    Request a Free paid advertising consultation.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Question: Can you target by language on Google Ads?

    Answer: Yes! Google Ads allows advertisers to create campaigns that specifically target users based on the language settings of their browser or device. You can set up your ads to appear in multiple languages, ensuring that they reach potential students who speak those languages. Additionally, you can create language-specific ad copy and landing pages, enhancing the relevance of your campaigns.

    Question: How does language impact advertising?

    Answer: Simply put, An ad aimed at professionals wanting to learn English for business purposes should be crafted differently from one targeting students hoping to improve their French skills before an international exchange. This approach ensures the content resonates more deeply with potential students, increasing the chances of conversion.

    Source link

  • The Top 5 Higher Education Podcasts

    The Top 5 Higher Education Podcasts

    As an educator, where do you go for advice on teaching? Perhaps it’s a book. Maybe it’s a social media channel of your choosing. But more often than not, faculty have turned to higher education podcasts as a way of gleaning fresh insights in a captivating, bite-sized format. It’s no secret that educators are stretched between teaching, grading and research commitments. So listening to a reputable guest share their best practices for improving equity, engagement and interaction in the classroom is a valuable faculty development and training exercise in of itself.

    If you’re looking for the best higher education podcasts to explore, this post is for you. We’ve rounded up our favorite shows that speak to the good, the bad and the ugly within higher ed in our present moment. We also capture podcasts hosted by leaders who bring deep, discipline-specific expertise to their field. Most importantly, we’ve summarized shows that not only cover the latest trends but offer practical advice in an educational and entertaining way. So grab your earbuds and let’s dive into the top higher education podcasts of the year.

    → NEW HIGHER EDUCATION PODCAST: Stream S1 of Higher Listenings by Top Hat

    1. Higher Listenings by Top Hat

    Ok, call us biased, but we think Higher Listenings from Top Hat is well worth a listen. Higher Listenings aims to engage and entertain educators with a look at the latest trends shaping the future of teaching and learning. In our first season, we offer practical advice to leave you feeling equipped and confident to tackle your next teaching challenge—whether boosting reading completion rates or embracing AI-powered learning. The first season offers an all star line up featuring some of the leading change makers in higher ed including Jesse Stommel (author of Ungrading: Why We Grade and How to Stop), José Antonio Bowen (author of Teaching with AI) and Terrell Strayhorn (leading expert on student belonging). Stay tuned for season two releasing in January 2025! In the meantime, catch up on our inaugural season by listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

    2. Teaching in Higher Ed by Bonni Stachowiak

    As the most effective educators know, good teaching is both an art and a science. Dr. Bonni Stachowiak is a professor and Dean of Teaching and Learning at Vanguard University. As the host of the Teaching in Higher Ed podcast, Stachowiak serves up best practices across four key categories including: digital pedagogy, student life, work-life balance and teaching. Notable guests include Joshua Eyler (Director of the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning at the University of Mississippi) and Jenae Cohen (Executive Director at the Center for Teaching and Learning at the University of California, Berkeley). Whether you’re looking for strategies to grade more productively or need guidance on ed tech integration in higher education, Stachowiak’s impressive lineup will leave you feeling inspired. Listen to the latest episodes on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

    3. Intentional Teaching by Derek Bruff

    Do you want to take your knowledge of foundational teaching practices to the next level? Dr. Derek Bruff will help you do just that. Bruff, Associate Director of the Center for Teaching Excellence at the University of Virginia and author of Intentional Tech, hosts the Intentional Teaching podcast geared towards college and university faculty. His goal is to leave listeners with actionable techniques to make their classrooms more inclusive, responsive to an AI-saturated world and ultimately, more engaging for every learner. Esteemed guests on his podcast include Thomas J. Tobin (Senior Teaching and Learning Developer at the University of Wisconsin-Madison) and Viji Sathy (Associate Dean for Evaluation and Assessment at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill). Check out Bruff’s star-studded episodes on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

    4. Tea for Teaching by John Kane and Rebecca Mushtare

    If you’re looking for faculty development and training paired with emerging research in pedagogy, this higher education podcast will surely be your cup of tea. The Tea for Teaching show is produced by John Kane and Rebecca Mushtare, who run the Center for Excellence in Learning and Teaching at the State University of New York (SUNY) at Oswego. The producers wrestle with hot-button topics from upskilling in the age of AI to reducing bias in course evaluations. High-impact guests, who include Michelle Miller (Professor in the Department of Psychological Sciences at Northern Arizona University) and Anthony Abraham Jack (Faculty Director of the Boston University Newbury Center), are featured in weekly episodes. Grab your favorite warm beverage and a notebook and tune into this podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

    5. Teach and Learn by D2L

    Unsure about the direction that education is heading in? Then you’ll want to take note of D2L’s Teach & Learn podcast. Geared towards K-12 and higher ed faculty, the show is hosted by Dr. Christi Ford (Vice President of Academic Affairs at D2L) and Dr. Emma Zone (Senior Director of Academic Affairs at D2L). In candid discussions with educational experts, the hosts dive into issues affecting higher education institutions today. This timely higher education podcast offers practical advice such as how to put diversity, equity and inclusion at the forefront of your course and how to harness AI to improve student learning. Recent guests include Thomas Cavanagh (Vice Provost for Digital Learning at the University of Central Florida) and Karen Costa (Faculty Development Facilitator for the Online Learning Consortium). Leave with practical tips for your own course by listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

    Source link

  • 5 School Advertising Ideas: Top Dos and Don’ts

    5 School Advertising Ideas: Top Dos and Don’ts

    Reading Time: 10 minutes

    Do you need more school advertising ideas? Today, we’re providing you with the inspiration you need. As a marketing agency with over 15 years of experience in educational marketing, we at HEM understand that school administrators and marketers face unique challenges when promoting their institutions. Traditional advertising methods may no longer yield the same results, and creative approaches are necessary to make a lasting impact. 

    Before we get the strategy, it’s important to define our goals. Though every institution has different objectives, generally, school advertising serves a unique purpose. What is the role of advertisement in education? Educational advertisements are crucial in creating awareness and attracting prospective students by effectively showcasing your educational institution’s unique features, values, and opportunities.

    It helps your school to share your programs, campus life, and success stories, making you more accessible and appealing to a diverse audience. By utilizing targeted advertising strategies, you can reach students who align with your offerings, thus enhancing enrollment rates and fostering a more engaged student body. Additionally, advertising builds a school’s brand and reputation, helping to differentiate it from competitors in an increasingly crowded educational market. In this guide, we’ll walk you through five school advertising ideas, focusing on what works—and what to avoid—so that your marketing efforts are as effective as possible.

    Looking to increase student enrollment?

    Our inbound marketing services can help your school attract and enroll more students!

    Idea 1: Virtual Campus Tours and Interactive Content

    With the increasing reliance on online learning, offering prospective students a virtual tour of your campus has become a highly effective school advertising tactic. This strategy enables you to create an engaging experience that leaves a lasting impression. A static, pre-recorded tour might offer a different personal touch than students are looking for, so consider an interactive experience that allows them to explore your campus on their own terms.

    Do make your virtual tour dynamic and customizable. It lets users choose their path, allowing them to click on different areas of the campus to explore further. This gives prospective students a sense of control and personalization, which is especially important if they cannot visit in person. You should also include interactive elements, like videos that feature current students or faculty members describing life on campus.

    Example: Here, John Cabot University in Rome showcases its unique location and stunning campus in a virtual tour. Visitors can click on different parts of the campus, zoom in for a closer look, and zoom out for a view of the Eternal City.

    JCUJCU

    Source: John Cabot University 

    However, pay attention to the importance of high-quality production. A virtual tour riddled with poor-quality video, muffled sound, or outdated visuals will do more harm than good. Investing in professional video production ensures the user experience is smooth and engaging. Also, make the tour shorter. Prospective students, especially younger ones, often have shorter attention spans, so aim to keep the tour concise but informative.

    If you could use more school advertising ideas, contact HEM here! 

    Idea 2: Personalized Email Campaigns

    Email marketing has long been a reliable channel for reaching potential students, but its effectiveness hinges on personalization. A well-crafted email that speaks directly to students’ interests can do wonders for engagement rates. The key is to use your collected data wisely and create highly targeted email campaigns that resonate with specific student personas.

    Personalize your emails based on the prospective student’s interests, location, and stage in the admissions funnel. Use their first names, reference the programs they have shown interest in, and offer tailored information about how your school can meet their needs. You could include information about extracurricular activities, scholarships, or campus events that align with their interests. Personalization can also extend to automated follow-up emails, keeping your school top-of-mind for students who may not have decided.

    Example: Here, MIT targets a warm lead – someone already interested in a specific program. It uses the prospect’s name, states their program of interest, and provides an attractive but time-sensitive call to action at the end. When creating personalized email campaigns, use segmentation to ensure each email goes to the right individual. Email segmentation is the process of dividing an email list into smaller, targeted groups based on specific criteria such as demographics, behavior, or interests. This allows for more personalized and relevant email marketing, improving engagement and overall campaign effectiveness.

    MITMIT

    Source: MIT | Gmail 

    On the other hand, don’t rely on generic, one-size-fits-all emails. Mass emailing without personalization is an outdated approach that can turn off prospective students, making them feel like just another number. Additionally, avoid sending too many emails too frequently. 

    Bombarding your prospects with irrelevant or repetitive content could cause them to unsubscribe or mark your emails as spam. Finding the right balance between engagement and oversaturation is key.

    Idea 3: Social Media Takeovers and Student-Generated Content

    Social media remains one of the most powerful platforms for schools to engage with prospective students, especially when using platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn for graduate programs. One creative way to leverage social media is through student takeovers. Handing over your social media channels to current students for a day or even a week can offer an authentic look at what life is like at your school. Prospective students are more likely to trust the words and experiences of their peers than a polished marketing message.

    Encourage students to share genuine, unfiltered content that represents their daily lives, whether that’s a behind-the-scenes look at classes, clubs, or dorm life. User-generated content can also effectively highlight diverse voices and experiences, allowing prospective students from all walks of life to see themselves reflected in your school’s culture. User-generated content showing real students living out their passions and making the most of their education can be a powerful marketing tool.

    Example: This student takeover by Oxford University showcases a unique aspect of the school’s culture – formals! Student takeovers are an excellent school advertisement tactic for targeting students who view their learning experience as an opportunity to earn new certifications and make memories.

    englishfacultyenglishfaculty

    Source: Oxford University English Faculty | Instagram 

    However, don’t lose control over your brand’s messaging. While student-generated content should be authentic, it’s important to provide guidelines so that the content stays in line with your school’s values and branding. Avoid situations where inappropriate or irrelevant content is on your official platforms. Striking the right balance between authenticity and professionalism is crucial for this strategy’s success.

    Idea 4: Search Engine Marketing (SEM) with a Focus on Long-Tail Keywords

    Search engine marketing (SEM) is another essential strategy when advertising for schools. While general keywords like “best universities” or “top colleges” are incredibly competitive and expensive, long-tail keywords can help your school reach a more specific audience. For example, keywords like “best nursing programs in Ontario” or “liberal arts colleges with study abroad options” are more likely to attract students who are already well-informed in their decision-making process.

    Do optimize your campaigns by focusing on long-tail keywords that match the unique aspects of your school’s programs. Conduct thorough keyword research to identify phrases that align with what makes your institution special. Additionally, ensure that your ads lead to well-designed landing pages relevant to the search query. If prospective students click on an ad about your nursing program, for example, they should be taken directly to a page with information on that program, not a generic landing page.

    Example: In the metadata of Randolph-Macon Academy’s blog, the title and meta description have been optimized using the long-tail keyword ‘military boarding school’. Be sure to use specific and relevant keywords that fit your target audience.

    rma coderma code

    Source: Randolph-Macon Academy 

    But don’t overspend on highly competitive keywords unlikely to yield significant results. Budgeting for SEM can be tricky, especially for schools with limited resources, so avoid the temptation to compete with bigger institutions on broad, expensive terms. Also, don’t neglect mobile optimization. Many students will be researching schools on their phones, so your SEM efforts should consider mobile-friendly landing pages and a seamless user experience across devices.

    Idea 5: Influencer Partnerships and Micro-Influencers

    The rise of influencer marketing has opened up new opportunities for schools to reach younger audiences, particularly through platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok. While partnering with mega-influencers can be costly and may not yield the desired results, working with micro-influencers—those with a smaller but highly engaged following—can be an excellent way to build trust with prospective students. These influencers, often niche content creators or even current students, can offer authentic endorsements of your school.

    Do choose micro-influencers who align closely with your school’s values and the interests of your target audience. For instance, if you’re promoting a nursing program, you might partner with a healthcare-related influencer who can speak authentically to the value of your school’s education. Establish clear objectives for the partnership, whether increasing applications, building brand awareness, or driving traffic to your website.

    Example: This is an excellent example of influencer content your school can use to reach prospects organically. Particularly when it comes to colleges and universities, students worldwide use the experiences of creators like Lydia, who are both relatable and aspirational, providing honest, helpful information about academics and student life. A small audience like Lydia’s is more likely to be trusting and have a very specific or niche interest in various subjects related to your school. Lydia’s YouTube channel posts authentic vlogs of her experience at Yale University, making her content perfect for any student considering enrollment there. You can launch an organic, effective, and cost-efficient school advertising campaign by partnering up with an influencer like her.

    yale youtube videosyale youtube videos

    Source: Lydia Choi | Youtube  

    However, don’t choose influencers solely based on follower count. Engagement rates and the influencer’s connection to your target audience matter much more. Also, avoid overly scripted partnerships that come off as inauthentic. The power of influencer marketing lies in its relatability, so the content produced should feel organic and aligned with the influencer’s usual style.

    Effective school advertising is about blending traditional marketing methods with creative, student-focused approaches such as the digital marketing tactics we’ve explored. You may have heard plenty of buzz around digital marketing, but you may still wonder: Do schools need digital marketers? Schools benefit from digital marketers to effectively reach and engage prospective students online, leveraging platforms like social media, search engines, and email to attract the right audience. Digital marketers use targeted campaigns and data-driven strategies to boost enrollment, enhance the institution’s visibility, and build a positive brand image in an increasingly competitive education landscape. 

    Idea 6: Video Advertising for Maximum Engagement

    Video content is one of the most powerful tools in advertising. When it comes to promoting educational institutions, it offers an engaging way to communicate your school’s values, culture, and opportunities. Platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok provide an ideal space for reaching prospective students, allowing you to tell compelling stories that resonate emotionally. A well-crafted video can showcase your school’s strengths, provide testimonials from current students, and highlight campus life in a way that static images simply cannot.

    Do make use of authentic storytelling in your video ads. Feature real students and staff sharing their experiences, whether about academic achievements, extracurricular activities, or campus culture. A relatable story goes a long way in building a genuine connection with your audience. It’s also important to tailor the content to the platform—short, catchy videos work great on TikTok, while longer, more in-depth content can thrive on YouTube. Keep your audience engaged by adding subtitles since many users watch videos on mute.

    Don’t create overly promotional or staged content. Today’s students can easily spot a scripted advertisement that lacks authenticity. Avoid focusing only on flashy visuals without providing meaningful information; remember, the goal is to attract students genuinely interested in what your school offers. Monitoring your campaigns and understanding which video styles or narratives resonate with your audience is also essential.

    college villacollege villa

    Source: Collège Villa Maria High School | Instagram

    Example: Villa Maria High School uses an engaging video ad to share useful information regarding an open house. Use your advertising to guide prospects to the next desired outcome. 

    To help schools navigate the intricacies of video advertising and other digital campaigns, Higher Education Marketing offers specialized paid advertising services. Our team can help improve your school’s reach in crucial regions, target specific audiences effectively, and strategically remarket to existing leads. With a free consultation, we analyze your paid advertising strategy and identify areas for improvement, ensuring that you get the best return on your investment.

    Whether you’re exploring virtual campus tours or into influencer partnerships, the key to success is connecting with your audience. Your school can stand out in a competitive market by focusing on high-quality, personalized, engaging content. Avoid pitfalls like impersonal messaging, poor production value, or misaligned partnerships. With these strategies, you’ll be well on your way to capturing the attention and interest of prospective students.

    Looking to increase student enrollment?

    Our inbound marketing services can help your school attract and enroll more students!

    FAQs

    What is the role of advertisement in education?

    Educational advertisements are crucial in creating awareness and attracting prospective students by effectively showcasing your educational institution’s unique features, values, and opportunities.

    Do schools need digital marketers?

    Schools benefit from digital marketers to effectively reach and engage prospective students online, leveraging platforms like social media, search engines, and email to attract the right audience.

    Source link

  • 5 Ways to Advocate for Your Students During The U.S. Election

    5 Ways to Advocate for Your Students During The U.S. Election

    Election Day in the U.S. is just around the corner. On top of carrying multiple academic and employment responsibilities, some students will also be voting for the first time. Others, such as those from marginalized or historically underrepresented populations, may be overwhelmed with what the election results could mean for them. In the lead up to Election Day, a healthy dose of empathy will be essential in ensuring students have a chance to fulfill their civic duty—and the opportunity to consider its consequences.

    Being flexible with due dates, considering students’ wellbeing and ensuring learners are armed with the resources needed to vote are the most important things you can do as Election Day nears. Read on to learn how professors advocated for their students during the 2020 election—and how you can do the same.

    Consider making November 4 and 5 free of assignments (or even classes)

    Exams can cause some students a great deal of stress and anxiety. Lillian Horin, Biological and Biomedical Sciences PhD student at Harvard University, urges educators to keep BIPOC students in mind when scheduling high-stakes tests.

    Consider swapping your exams or problem sets (Psets) with a trip to the ballot box. Jacob Light, Economics PhD student at Stanford University, writes that this simple gesture may allow students to exercise their civic duty.

    Other students like Anna-Sophia Boguraev, Bioengineering PhD student at Harvard Medical School and MIT, say that TAs have the power to amplify student concerns and requests—none of which should be ignored.

    If your assignments can’t wait, build in flexibility and timeliness

    Self-paced learning can allow students to visit the polls and complete coursework at a time that works for them—so says Jesse Fox, Associate Professor of Communication at Ohio State University.

    Election Day can also be a good opportunity to let students catch their breath in your course. Give students a chance to study and review material that they haven’t had a chance to look over, suggests Scott Grunow, Instructor in English and Religious Studies at the University of Illinois at Chicago.

    Should your institutions provide little leeway in your assessment choices, at least incorporate real-time events into your discussions. Derek Bruff, Associate Director, Center for Teaching Excellence at the University of Virginia, notes that relating course content to the election can help students see the value of what they’re learning.

    Real-time political events and policy proposals can make for discipline-specific conversations. This also allows students to apply what they’ve learned in your class to the real world, as Andrea Gomez Cervantes, Assistant Professor in the Department of Sociology at Wake Forest University, proposes.

    Mobilize your students to show up at the polls

    Gen Z students are motivated to vote. In the 2018 midterm elections, the student turnout rate increased by 20 percent compared to the 2014 midterms.1 Ensure students are equipped with the resources to vote as soon as possible, writes Wendy Christensen, Sociology Professor at William Paterson University.

    Similarly, ask students about their voting plans. Consider working with your class to ensure they know where to go on November 5, suggests Margaret Boyle, Associate Professor of Romance Languages and Literatures at Bowdoin College.

    Ensure your voter registration information and resources appeal to all students, regardless of what political party they support. Meghan Novisky, Assistant Professor of Criminology at Cleveland State University, emphasizes the importance of using non-partisan guidelines.

    Some scholars like Sara Wheeler-Smith, Associate Professor of Management at Manhattan College, even plan to offer a grading incentive for visiting the polls.

    Incorporate guest lectures and learn from your colleagues

    Navigating election week with students in mind might be an unfamiliar undertaking. Consider leaning on faculty at your institution for support, writes Heather Mayer, Director of Educational Technology at Everett Community College.

    Some students may be undecided voters, while others may have missed the presidential debates. Incorporate forms of debate in your classroom—with the support of scholars from other institutions, as Yujin Jung, Political Sciences PhD student at the University of Missouri, plans to do.

    Keep in mind the importance of mental and physical health

    Check-ins with students have gained new meaning in the midst of an election. Andrea Kelley, Sociology Professor at the University of Michigan, tends to her students’ socioemotional needs before assigning readings and lectures.

    Election Day can come with a range of emotions for many students. Cate Denial, Distinguished Professor of American History, Chair of the History department, and Director of the Bright Institute at Knox College, removes the expectation for students to pay attention and participate in class.

    References

    1. Thomas, N. et al. (2018). Democracy Counts 2018: Increased Student and Institutional Engagement. Tufts University. https://idhe.tufts.edu/sites/default/files/DemocracyCounts2018.pdf

    Tagged as:



    Source link

  • Infographic: What 21,000+ Students Say About Top Hat

    Infographic: What 21,000+ Students Say About Top Hat

    It’s that time: the days are becoming shorter, temperatures are beginning to dip and more importantly, educators and students have returned to the classroom. At Top Hat, we recognize the value of ensuring every student comes to class prepared and excited to learn. We recently surveyed more than 21,000 students who used Top Hat in the Spring 2024 term about the impact our engagement platform and content solutions had on their academic journey. From interactive readings to in-the-moment study support, here’s how Top Hat made a tangible difference in their studies.

    Greater preparedness = better retention

    When students arrive to class feeling prepared, they’re more likely to persist. Data from the American Council on Education and the School of Education and Information Studies at the University of California at Los Angeles backs this up. The report finds that three out of five students surveyed state academic underperformance drove their decision to leave college for more than one term.

    Faculty have made tremendous strides in providing opportunities for frequent, low-stakes knowledge checks during the term. The emphasis on bite-sized assessments hasn’t gone unnoticed among students. “Real-time quizzes and polls not only helped reinforce key concepts but also encouraged active participation among students. Top Hat has truly enhanced our classroom interaction and made learning more enjoyable,” says Muhammad Ali Gajani at Indiana University Bloomington.

    An image that reads: 87% of students say that Top Hat helped them feel engaged in the learning process.

    Students bring an array of opinions and interests to your course. It’s why they value the opportunity to be active participants in the classroom. Research also shows that students who learn using active learning methods perform better on tests than those who sit in long-form lectures. Students echoed the impact Top Hat’s interactive polls, quizzes and discussions had when applying their knowledge. “Top Hat helped me perform better in my class as well as apply my understanding to my homework and exams,” shares Jacob Purcell at West Texas A&M University. An anonymous student from Texas State University at San Marcos chimes in. “It helped me to pay attention and stay engaged, getting me a better grade.”

    Turning static readings into an interactive experience

    We hear from educators that students don’t always complete their reading assignments before class. Over the years, students have tried to take shortcuts to their readings by searching for online summaries. How have educators responded? For starters, they’ve chosen to create ‘snackable’ content with media and real-world case studies that reflect an ever-changing world. Faculty have also relied on Top Hat’s personalized and interactive content solutions to ensure students have opportunities to read and then apply their understanding of concepts in the form of embedded polls and discussions.

    An image that reads: 90% of students who used a Top Hat Interactive eText recommend their instructor use Top Hat again.

    No matter discipline, students have responded favorably to using Top Hat titles in their course. “I loved the interactive aspect of my Top Hat textbook. Engaging with models, watching videos, and answering questions in chapters was really interesting and valuable to my learning experience,” shares an anonymous student at the University of South Dakota. Learners also appreciate the digestible nature of Top Hat Interactive eTexts. “With Top Hat, I felt that I could easily understand the information and stayed focused throughout my reading for the first time,” shares an anonymous student at Northern Virginia Community College.

    Making participation less intimidating

    An image that reads: 2 out of 5 students say that being able to ask questions to their instructor anonymously helps foster a sense of belonging.

    Raising your hand in a large class can come with a good deal of intimidation. Students place increased importance on asking questions anonymously and without fear of judgment. It’s why millions of students have flocked to Generative AI platforms such as ChatGPT for instant study guidance. Educators have tapped into the heightened interest in AI and have shared ethical use principles with students. Some faculty have even allowed students to build off content generated by a Large Language Model. For instance, English professors may let students use ChatGPT to form a thesis statement for an essay and ask them to critique the strengths and weaknesses of the generated response.

    An image that reads: “Ace was helpful. There were several occasions where I had questions that needed to be answered immediately and Ace was always there to save the day.” Student at the University of West Florida

    More than 630 of our survey respondents used Top Hat Ace, our AI-powered teaching and learning assistant, in the Spring term. Their comments revealed three primary ways that they relied on Ace through the course of their study. 

    1. Provide clarity: Students valued receiving clarification on challenging concepts covered in lecture or while reading their assigned text. “I liked that [Ace] asked a thought-provoking question after answering to promote continuous understanding of the topic, not just giving me the answer,” shares an anonymous student at Oakton Community College.
    2. Personalize study support: Students often relied on Ace for course-specific guidance when completing homework. The best part: since responses are built from the context of the course, students feel like they’re learning along the way versus being handed answers. “I love Ace! I would ask questions and Ace always believed in me that I could answer the question on my own so it would just recommend a section of the module to re-read,” says Nazli Kircicek at McGill University.
    3. Assess knowledge on the fly: Several students highlighted how Ace allows them to reduce their knowledge gaps in advance of tests. Many also used Ace as a tool to apply their understanding of concepts in a low-stakes, low-stress environment. “Ace was able to create sample exam questions relating to the content we were learning in class to prepare for exams during lectures,” shares an anonymous student at Grand Valley State University.

    → New Ebook: FREE strategies to use AI effectively in any course

    Source link

  • How to Equip Your Students With Essential Soft and Hard Skills Using Ed Tech

    How to Equip Your Students With Essential Soft and Hard Skills Using Ed Tech

    Today’s employers don’t just hire based on educational achievement. They’ve increasingly prioritized higher-order learning skills during the hiring process. To help students become job ready and land a role in the current workforce, professors need to empower learners with the necessary 21st-century skills, often called ‘soft skills.’

    This guide lays out key information on how to create opportunities for skill-based learning to help smoothen the transition from college to the workforce. It will also describe how to develop these skills in students while they’re still in the classroom. Most significantly, you’ll learn how educational technology can sharpen the essential soft skills students need beyond your course.  

    Below are 15 soft and hard skills that make up 21st-century learning.

    The 4 Cs of 21st-Century Learning

    The first four of these higher-order learning skills are widely considered the most vital 21st-century skills in the classroom for students to learn. Commonly known as the 4 Cs of 21st-century learning, they comprise:

    1. Critical thinking:

    Critical thinking is about problem-solving, and being able to bring a skeptical, discerning perspective to assertions of fact and opinion. Students are given opportunities to question and challenge the information presented to them. Troubleshooting and IT support are two hard skills that rely heavily on critical thinking as a foundation and are in-demand skills for the wide variety of technology-based careers in today’s job market.

    How Top Hat helps: Donna M. Smith, a math instructor, is a recipient of the Top Hat Black Educator Grant. A teacher of College Algebra at Sierra College, she has leveraged Top Hat to build a framework that helps students learn how to develop critical-thinking skills, and other soft skills like teamwork, adaptability and time management. She uses this framework to provide students with practice opportunities that demand specific actions from students, then gauges their higher-order learning using Top Hat’s range of assessment tools, spanning all six levels of Bloom’s Taxonomy. As a result, she reports, she’s found her students’ rate of success improved dramatically.

    In the same vein, 93 percent of students surveyed in a Top Hat research report said the variety of assessment types Top Hat offers help them learn how to develop critical-thinking skills.

    2. Creativity:

    This is the process of approaching problems from a variety of perspectives, including ones others might not notice. It helps develop trust in one’s own instincts and helps students seek out new solutions to old problems.

    3. Communication skills:

    This is the ability to convey thoughts and ideas clearly and effectively. In a 21st-century education, that includes being able to communicate well digitally, from texts, emails and social media, to podcasting and video conferencing.

    How Top Hat helps: Top Hat’s Discussion feature helps develop skill-building via collaboration in the classroom. While not all students are always on an equal playing field when it comes to comfort in group discussions, this Top Hat feature meets students where they are by allowing them to respond to comments and questions from any device. They can use simple text or incorporate images, sound bites and videos to propel the conversation forward. Teachers can even employ anonymity to make students comfortable engaging in sensitive topics. Teachers can use this Top Hat feature to drive up classroom participation significantly.

    4. Collaboration:

    This is the ability to work with others as a team to solve a problem or achieve a shared goal. It helps develop the abilities to share control, pitch solutions and discuss and decide with others the best course of action. It also helps students learn to effectively deal with others who may not agree with them, develop the critical abilities to resolve conflicts effectively and consider different viewpoints from their peers.

    Research shows that students who enter the workforce with knowledge and experience in the 4 Cs of 21st-century learning tend to be more adaptable and flexible in the constantly-shifting workplace environment. The 4 Cs of 21st-century learning, in turn, empower students to work better across cultures and are more prepared to take on leadership roles.

    Key Higher-Order Learning Skills

    Other important 21st-century skills in the classroom include:

    5. Problem-solving:

    This is the use of both conventional and innovative methods to solve different types of unfamiliar problems. It involves identifying and asking meaningful questions to clarify different viewpoints and arrive at more effective solutions.

    How Top Hat helps: The Top Hat Assignment feature enables teachers to provide students with interactive homework assignments that actively engage them in their own higher-order learning outside the classroom. A multimedia-friendly tool with 14 easy-to-use question types and automatic grading, this versatile feature keeps collaboration, communication and other essential skills front and center. It incorporates reading, answering questions and viewing media with worksheets, case studies and simulations to help students develop a deeper understanding of a problem and a multifaceted approach to its potential solutions. An added benefit for instructors is that it provides insights into students’ comprehension, participation and completion in real-time.

    6. Information literacy:

    This includes the ability to access, evaluate, utilize and manage information, critically and efficiently. It also involves the accurate and creative application of available information to the current problem or issue. It requires managing data flow from multiple sources, and the application of fundamental legal and ethical knowledge regarding access to and use of that information.

    7. Technology skills and digital literacy:

    Often abbreviated as ICT literacy (Information, Communication and Technology,) this is the collective set of abilities that allow students to effectively apply digital technologies to researching, evaluating, organizing and communicating information across digital channels. This may include using computers, mobile devices, social networks and other communication tools. Jobs in machine learning, product management and software development require understanding of technological platforms and apps. Individuals in these careers must be proficient in these skills in order to suceed.

    How Top Hat helps: Top Hat improves general literacy and digital literacy at the same time with Interactive Textbooks. Dynamic courseware incorporates text with high-quality images, videos and 3D simulations to captivate students’ interest and help them absorb and retain information better. They include case studies and customizable, interactive assessments, and students can access them anytime and from any device. Teachers can use Top Hat’s interactive textbooks in combination with physical textbooks, or on their own.

    Incorporating interactive textbooks and other digital technologies also helps students with skill-building and better prepare them to enter the 21st-century workforce by providing one-to-one computing, giving them the technology required to utilize their higher-order thinking skills in coursework.

    8. Media literacy:

    This includes the ability to analyze media and create media products. It involves understanding how, why and for what purpose various entities construct media messages, including what values and viewpoints they choose to include or exclude, and why. It also examines how people interpret messages differently and how that influences behaviors and beliefs. 

    9. Global awareness:

    This is the use of 21st-century skills to comprehend and address issues of global magnitude, and to collaborate with those from diverse backgrounds. It also involves taking an equitable or inclusive mindset when presenting new information. For example, educators might draw connections between cultural references in an English or cultural studies course. Teaching students the importance of global awareness also starts with reflecting on current and real-time events in your teaching, such as incorporating case studies on political or social uprisings.

    10. Self-direction:

    This is the ability to effectively set goals and manage time, as well as to work independently. It requires determining tangible and intangible criteria for success and balancing short-term tactical goals with long-term strategic ones. It also requires demonstrating initiative and commitment and working independently, including defining, prioritizing, monitoring and completing tasks without oversight, while reflecting on past experiences and learning from them.

    11. Social skills:

    This is the ability to effectively interact with others and work in diverse teams. Students recognize the appropriate times to listen or speak while remaining open-minded to diverse values and ideas. Students also learn how to conduct themselves professionally in a respectful manner, including when working with people from different backgrounds. Those looking to pursue careers in nursing or other areas of healthcare must be proficient in providing both emotional and physical care to patients. Common hard skills required for these careers include Basic Life Support (BLS), Patient Safety and Critical First Aid.

    12. Perseverance:

    This is the ability to persist in a determined effort in spite of obstacles and setbacks. It requires many of the other higher-order thinking skills, including problem-solving and self-direction, to employ effectively.

    How Top Hat helps: Top Hat’s 21st-century learning suite includes many tools that help educators make sure no student falls behind. Not least among them is learning insights. By tracking every interaction between a student and the software automatically, Top Hat enables you to see which students need additional help, in what area and when. Gauge attendance, progress, comprehension, participation—and act on these insights proactively in real-time.

    13. Literacy skills:

    Basic literacy skills include the abilities to create, comprehend, analyze, absorb, retain and recall written information. In the 21st-century workplace and modern economy, they especially apply to business, economic, financial, health and entrepreneurial interests.

    14. Civic literacy:

    Students become familiar with how civic decisions have local and global implications. This type of literacy involves effective participation in civic life by remaining informed and comprehending the processes of government. It also requires knowing how to exercise citizenship rights and obligations.

    15. Social responsibility:

    This encompasses everything from human rights, labor practices, the climate and the environment, fair operating practices, consumer issues and community involvement and development. It requires accountability, transparency, ethical behavior and respect for stakeholder interest, the rule of law, international norms of behavior and human rights.

    Why 21st-Century Skills Are Important

    Importance of Soft Skills for Students

    At its most basic level, teaching 21st-century skills, like critical thinking, provides a framework for higher-order learning. Beyond that, however, it also helps students develop the skills that ensure they will thrive when they leave the classroom and enter the workforce.

    Today’s workplaces are changing constantly, and the role of technology is ever-evolving and growing. That means that persistent, continual learning is essential to succeed and an emphasis on the importance of soft skills for students. Today’s graduates require not only the knowledge and skills for their chosen careers, but critical-thinking skills to navigate an always-changing landscape.

    Good for the World

    The greater community also benefits from new workers entering the workforce with a 21st-century education. The wellbeing of our broader society requires workers with competence and experience in:

    • Civic engagement
    • Critical thinking
    • Digital literacy
    • Effective communication
    • Global awareness

    Graduates equipped with these higher-order learning skills comprehend their role as good citizens and their connection to their neighbors and their shared environment. This way, they are more tolerant, they think more equitably and they aim to build a more diverse workforce. They are empowered to approach all they do in their work with a civic-minded focus.

    Conclusion

    As a 2017 research review in Nurse Education in Practice reported, “Technology has advanced in quantity and quality; recognized as a requirement of 21st-century learners.” Integrating curricula on critical thinking and other soft skills in your classroom will help your students enter the 21st-century workplace better equipped to meet the challenges facing future workers and leaders. As technology becomes an increasingly inseparable part of the working world, it’s becoming more evident that teachers who make effective use of it have an advantage in helping students prepare for life beyond the classroom.

    The developers and designers of Top Hat, including professional educators themselves, are singularly focused on employing the latest in 21st-century education technology to help educators empower students to achieve these aims.

    References

    Ross, D. (2017, April 24). Empowering Our Students with 21st-Century Skills for Today. Getting Smart. www.gettingsmart.com/2017/04/24/empowering-students-21st-century-skills/

    What is social responsibility? (n.d.). ASQ. asq.org/quality-resources/social-responsibility

    LinkedIn Jobs on the Rise 2022: The 25 U.S. roles that are growing in demand (2022, January 18). LinkedIn. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/linkedin-jobs-rise-2022-25-us-roles-growing-demand-linkedin-news/

    Source link

  • Template: The Top Metacognitive Strategies for Higher Ed

    Template: The Top Metacognitive Strategies for Higher Ed

    Metacognition plays a critical role in the education process. The concept itself amounts to ‘thinking about thinking.’ When students learn through metacognitive activities before, during and after class, their grades or scores often improve. The reason? Self-awareness, reflection and critical thinking lead to more engagement in the classroom. As such, metacognition is one of the most important strategies that instructors, particularly college-level instructors, can use to help their students succeed.

    Table of contents

    1. Why is metacognition important?
    2. Examples of metacognitive strategies
    3. The value of metacognition in post-secondary courses
    4. 8 metacognitive strategies to use in college classes
    5. Metacognition in the college classroom

    Why is metacognition important?

    Metacognition, put plainly, is thinking about one’s thinking. It refers to the processes used to plan, monitor, analyze and assess one’s understanding and performance. In other words, metacognition in the classroom is the act of considering one’s own learning and thought processes to see if those processes produce results. When educators use metacognitive strategies, learning becomes more visible for students. In turn, students gain a better understanding of why a particular strategy will help them solve a problem. Here’s an example: after an assessment, ask your students to reflect on which of the study strategies they used were most effective to plan more strategically for their next assessment to ensure they meet their learning goals on their next assessment. 

    The word metacognition is an umbrella term: Thinking about and analyzing one’s own thinking and learning processes happen in a number of ways, each contributing to the development of metacognition skills. You could provide students with opportunities for reflection, encourage them to engage critically with course readings or provide real-world case studies to extend learning outside the classroom. Effective educators teach their students how to use a variety of methods to measure and critically reflect on their own learning experiences.

    Examples of metacognitive strategies

    Practicing metacognition can help students develop the essential skill of self-regulation. In turn, students will have a deeper sense of agency over their learning. Metacognitive strategies are usually categorized into four stages: You, Plan, Do and Review.

    • The ‘You’ stage is where students reflect on their prior knowledge on a topic
    • The ‘Plan’ stage is where students develop an action plan for completing a task and determine the metacognitive strategies they’ll use
    • The ‘Do’ stage is where students carry out a task and monitor their progress along the way
    • The ‘Review’ stage is where students reflect on their learning paths and identify areas to improve when taking on completing future activities

    Dr. Linda Nilson, Director Emeritus of Teaching Effectiveness and Innovation at Clemson University and author of Creating Self-Regulated Learners, highly encourages faculty to tap into metacognitive strategies in the classroom. Dr. Nilson suggests asking students the following questions to help them reflect upon their own learning process. Here’s how she recommends breaking things down:

    Planning before a task Monitoring during a task Evaluating after a task
    What do I already know about the topic? What material am I having trouble understanding? Can I see and organize the relationship between topics?
    What additional information, if any, will I need before completing this task? How does what I am learning relate to what I already know? What can I recall and what do I need to review?
    What are my weaknesses and how can I make up for them? How is my thinking on the topic changing? What questions do I need to bring to the next class?

    We’ve rounded up more metacognitive strategies to help students turn into conscious learners. Get access to our free template of self-regulation activities featuring Dr. Nilson’s ideas to deepen learning. Simply sign into Top Hat or create your account today.

    The value of metacognition in post-secondary courses

    Through metacognitive learning strategies, students don’t just consider how they’re learning—they actually learn to identify their own strengths and weaknesses. This allows them to shore up areas where they feel confident and work more effectively on where they may need to focus future learning efforts.

    It is critical for college students to understand how to use metacognitive activities to further their understanding of coursework. Students in higher ed are expected to be able to formulate independent thoughts about the subjects they’re studying. Metacognition is the first step to making this happen. Once students know what they’re thinking about a particular subject, they can make connections between their prior knowledge and the new course concepts they’re learning.

    Metacognition also helps students develop a critical eye. According to Vanderbilt University, students who lack metacognition skills may lack the ability to discern the truth of what they see and hear every day—which is crucial as today’s students have more access to information than ever before. As such, the development of metacognitive skills also contributes to the growth of critical judgment skills. For this reason, it’s essential that college instructors give students plenty of opportunities to work on activities to develop metacognitive thinking. It isn’t an exaggeration to say that, for students, learning how to think is just as if not more important than the subjects they’re learning. That’s because developing metacognitive awareness can be useful for students across disciplines and beyond.

    When students get a grasp on how to use metacognitive processes, they learn how they learn, and that’s a skill that transfers not only to other classes but to life outside of academia. Once students graduate, knowing how to learn is an immensely useful skill to have. This helps students become more effective learners and obtain new skills more easily, which can help meet academic, personal and professional goals.

    Such practices can ultimately help students better master their lives. Students who know how to think about their own thoughts can answer questions like: What does my best life look like? Or what makes me feel good about myself? 

    8 metacognition strategies to use in college classes 

    The following eight examples offer instructors some teaching strategies and tools for employing metacognitive activities in the classroom. Each exercise is designed to allow students to think about their thinking in some way.

    It’s important for instructors to remember that activities designed to promote metacognitive knowledge should be used regularly in the classroom. Sporadic use of these exercises doesn’t promote the intellectual growth that college-level students need in order to succeed in their advanced studies.

    1. Let students know the purpose of in-class questions

    Part of getting students on board with the process of metacognition is to help them identify when they are thinking about their thinking. If an instructor is using questions designed to elicit specific outcomes, then it’s helpful for that instructor to point out when those types of questions are being used as a form of explicit instruction. One obvious place to point out the possible use of such questions is in the syllabus.

    In other words, if questions are designed to encourage students to think about their own thinking and to spark more engaged discussions, then that should be explicitly acknowledged early on.

    2. Consider facilitating a diagnostic assessment

    This recommendation goes hand-in-hand with point one above. At the outset of a college course, it is often a good idea for the instructor to test students on their knowledge of a given topic.

    A set of ten to 20 questions about the subject gives the instructor an at-a-glance look at what students know at the beginning of the semester. The information from these quizzes can later be compared to student answers at the end of the semester. This helps instructors and students measure growth.

    It’s important to let students know that this isn’t graded. Its purpose is to give them and the instructor some information about students’ knowledge of the subject at the beginning of the course. This allows everyone to consider their position and to plan their studies accordingly. For some instructors, this method works so well that they regularly incorporate a version of it into their class instruction, even weekly in some cases.

    These exercises don’t have to be a point of stress for instructors, however. Platforms like Top Hat have exercises and learning tasks, such as quizzes and polls, to help students think about their thinking and keep them engaged in their classwork. These types of exercises also allow students to test their thinking and review their learning strategies in real-time because these platforms can grade student responses immediately.

    3. Get into the habit of thinking out loud

    Many instructors forget that there was a time when they sat in their students’ chairs—when they had their own way of processing the information they were learning.

    One way teachers can invite their students into the metacognitive mindset is by thinking out loud in class. It may sound simplistic, but when people think out loud, they’re processing their thoughts about a topic. Instructors who do this in front of students demonstrate metacognition in action.

    4. Assign a muddiest point essay

    Writing is another example of metacognitive abilities in action. It encourages students to think about what they’re learning and how they’re thinking about it. 

    In this exercise, the instructor asks the students to either write a short essay or come up with a bulleted list of the main points of the lecture. The instructor can assign this at the end of a class period, giving students ten to 15 minutes to write.

    The idea behind this exercise is to help teachers know where students are still having trouble with the material. Once this information is gleaned, these weak points can be addressed in the next class period.

    Even if the instructor doesn’t have them write about the muddiest point, regular writing exercises teach students to think about what they’re thinking.

    5. Leave plenty of time for class discussion

    Speaking and listening activities also give students opportunities to think about their thought processes. As a bonus, students get to learn about the thought processes of others. Classroom discussions promote student engagement. This makes learning more interesting. More interesting learning is a recipe for learning that’s also understood and remembered.

    Additionally, the instructor can go a step further by asking students to lead the instruction. For example, the professor can break the topic down into smaller subjects and assign each smaller topic to a student in the class. Students can then lead the discussion, either in front of the whole class or in smaller groups.

    6. Post-class self-assessments

    There is a reason why so many institutions do end-of-year evaluations. They give educators valuable feedback on student learning.

    The same principle applies to asking students to create a self-assessment at the end of a course. They can talk about what they thought was true about the subject compared to what they know to be true now. If the instructor has assigned them journal work, then this assessment can go in the journal.

    7. Reflective journaling

    Reflective journaling exercises provide students with a forum to monitor their own thinking and their own learning processes. Following a challenging lecture, encourage students to consider which course concepts they are comfortable with and where they could benefit from further review. This can help them plan their future studies or prompt them to reach out to an instructor or TA for extra help.

    Self-reflection exercises can also be used following a summative assessment, like a test or exam. Prompt students to respond to questions like: “What about my exam preparation worked well that I should remember to do next time?” or “What did not work so well that I should not do next time or that I should change?”

    8. Model metacognitive thinking

    To develop a classroom environment rooted in metacognition, consider modeling these practices for your students. By being transparent about how you navigate new developments in your field, tackle complex concepts and relate course content to the world outside your classroom, you show students that metacognition is a lifelong process. 

    Metacognition in the college classroom

    Metacognitive activities seem relatively simple in practice. That’s why it may be easy for instructors and students to overlook how powerful they can be. Activities like quizzes, discussions and real-world case studies all help develop metacognitive skills. Essentially, students can use these activities to examine their thinking processes, including how they learn the materials in class.

    However, despite being straightforward to use in your course, the application of metacognitive activities has far-reaching implications that go beyond the confines of successful learning in the classroom. They enable students to make the best use of their lives and to develop good judgment. Once students graduate from their studies, the activities that they have done to develop their metacognition skills are useful on the job and off.

    Instructors who wish to use metacognitive activities in the classroom have a full toolbox of activities at their disposal. These activities can be as simple as doing frequent quizzes using active learning platforms like Top Hat.

    These activities can also be more involved. They can include lively classroom discussions that are designed to get students engaged in their coursework or even regular journaling activities that students can do throughout the semester.

    Finally, it is important for instructors to demonstrate to their students what this type of critical thinking and problem-solving looks like. When they do, they model the proper behavior for students. In this way, students learn to identify critical thinking in action and to mimic it until they fully grasp what it means to employ metacognition in the classroom and out.

    → Free Template: Get Linda Nilson’s recommended self-regulation activities

    Source link

  • 10 Top Hat Tips for a More Engaging Semester

    10 Top Hat Tips for a More Engaging Semester

    What does the future of higher education look like? At Top Hat, we believe engagement, affordability and equity are at the heart of a great classroom experience. That’s why we’re excited to highlight a number of features in our platform and content solutions to empower students and faculty alike. Take a look at these unique capabilities in Top Hat and get ready to level up your lectures, assessments and grading strategy.

    → Free Toolkit: Get strategies, templates and videos for a successful new term

    1. Add AI-generated questions to every lecture

    Top Hat Ace, our AI-powered assistant, is the latest milestone in our mission to make education more effective, inclusive and accessible. Instructors can use Ace’s Lecture Enhancer to instantly generate assessment questions based on their lecture content. Doing so will spark engagement in class and help educators assess comprehension in the moment. Faculty can even edit generated questions as they see fit, maintaining control over the questions generated. Learn more about our AI-powered Lecture Enhancer here. In addition, educators can save time designing assignments and readings in Top Hat Pages by adding questions automatically generated by Ace.

    2. Assign homework to specific students

    Shore up learning gaps sooner rather than later. With personalized data delivered to your inbox every week, identify which students didn’t answer discussion or poll questions in your lecture and re-assign your PowerPoint slides to this group as homework. This will give students a chance to refresh themselves on your material, which may prove especially beneficial for those who weren’t able to join your class live. Learn more about assigning homework to specific students here. You can also watch the video below as we explore the difference between homework and review mode.

    3. Make your discussion and poll questions media-rich

    Give students an interactive assessment experience. You may know how to add videos or simulations to your Pages, but you can also directly embed media into your quiz questions. Not only will students get a more dynamic, immersive learning experience, they’ll get an opportunity to consume your course material in a different medium. Plus, using videos in your quiz questions makes for a more engaging alternative to the static Scantron or multiple-choice test. Learn more about using videos in questions or discussions here.

    4. Offer line-by-line feedback on document submissions

    Enjoy feedback functionality that will be familiar to those who regularly use Google Docs. Using our file submission question, students are able to upload PDFs, lab templates or spreadsheets to Top Hat. Take your feedback to another level by offering annotated comments at various points in PDF or image submissions. This level of detailed commentary allows students to fully understand their own learning gaps, while giving you an opportunity to flag specific areas for improvement in advance of a high-stakes assessment. Learn more about how to leave detailed feedback in PDF file submissions here.

    5. Measure comprehension of the same concept over time

    If you’re preparing students for an exam and want to check their understanding of tricky concepts multiple times, this feature is for you. Compare student comprehension over a period of your choosing by keeping a record of responses to the same question asked more than once. After enabling this feature, you’ll be able to compare responses submitted on date X with date Y, seeing what percentage of students answered a particular way and letting you adapt your instruction accordingly. Explore how to create multiple question report sessions for your next quiz here. You can also watch our video below to see how to segment question results over time.

    6. Annotate your slideshow with whiteboard sketches

    Sometimes, visually explaining a new concept can be easier than describing it in words. Top Hat’s Whiteboard Sketch tool allows you to insert blank slides into your slideshow, which you can then draw on in real time. For instance, complement a presentation on mitosis by drawing out the various stages live, answering student questions along the way. This tool doesn’t just allow for richer, more detailed discussions, it ensures students get a visual depiction of challenging concepts before moving on to your next topic. Learn how to embed interactive elements into your slides here.

    7. Embed iFrames to create a truly interactive learning experience

    Tailor your learning materials to the needs of Generation Z. When creating assessments, homework or customizing chapter readings in Pages, use iFrames to link to media such as podcasts, websites, simulations and GIFs. Open the interactive toolbar in your page, select the iFrame option and paste your desired link in the field. Learn how to embed iFrames in your course content here. You can also watch our video below for guidance on creating course materials using Pages.

    8. Use Presenter View to view personal notes and real-time responses

    In a single view, get all the information you need to deliver a high-quality presentation. Use Presenter View to get a second screen that’s only accessible to you. View lecture notes that you added into your slide deck and get a live report of students’ responses as they answer questions live. Plus, preview which slide is next—and shift your conversation with students accordingly. Explore the power of Presenter View in helping you deliver an impactful slideshow here.

    9. Keep your course textbook fresh and relevant with in-app content updates

    Give students a learning experience that mirrors the world around them. Incorporate the latest content updates without losing any customizations in your interactive Top Hat textbook. You’ll be alerted whenever new author-created content is available for your text and will be given a chance to review all updates before accepting or rejecting them. This functionality ensures that educators have access to the latest content when it becomes available, on their own terms. In-app content updates are currently available in beta format for select Top Hat textbooks. Discover how our content enhancements make it easy to keep any textbook up-to-date here.

    10. Provide AI-powered study support 

    Make sure every student has in-the-moment study support. Students can use our AI-powered study assistant to clarify challenging concepts, generate examples of specific topics and quiz themselves in advance of a test. Ace delivers relevant responses built from the context of your uploaded materials, making it easy for students to review lectures and study notes in one place. Read more about our personalized study assistance here. You can also watch the video below for a closer look at our AI-powered study tools.

    → Free Toolkit: Get the Most Out of Top Hat

    Source link