Relating to methods for increasing student success and degree completion at public institutions of higher education.
Impact
The proposed changes under SB1800 aim to standardize academic advising assessments across various institutions of higher education. By requiring the board to create a method for evaluating these services, the bill hopes to foster an environment where best practices in academic advising can be shared and implemented widely. This could lead to improved student experiences and may contribute to higher retention and graduation rates across Texas public colleges and universities.
Summary
SB1800, introduced by Senator Zaffirini, focuses on enhancing student success and increasing degree completion rates at public institutions of higher education in Texas. The bill proposes specific measures that need to be assessed to improve the quality and effectiveness of academic advising services offered to students. These measures are particularly aimed at developing a structured assessment method incorporating feedback from the students on the existing advising services they receive.
Contention
While SB1800 provides a framework for enhancing academic advising, the debate may arise around the metrics used for assessment and the potential bureaucratic overhead this could introduce to the academic environment. Institutions might express concerns regarding the imposition of state standards that may not take into account the unique needs of different educational communities, especially between public and private universities. The specifics of how the student feedback is collected and utilized in the assessment also present potential points of contention.
Provisions
Additionally, the bill mandates a study on the transferability of courses between for-profit career schools and public/private institutions. This implies a recognition of the need for a smoother educational pathway for students transitioning between different types of institutions, thus underscoring a comprehensive approach to student success in higher education.
Relating to measures to facilitate the successful completion of degree and certificate programs by certain adult learners at public institutions of higher education.
Relating to the establishment of the Texas Competency-Based Education Grant Program for certain students enrolled in competency-based baccalaureate degree programs and to formula funding and dropped and repeated course restrictions for students enrolled in those degree programs at public institutions of higher education.
Relating to the establishment of the Texas Competency-Based Education Grant Program for certain students enrolled in competency-based baccalaureate degree programs and to formula funding and dropped and repeated course restrictions for students enrolled in those degree programs at public institutions of higher education.
Relating to the establishment of the Texas Emergency Aid for Public Postsecondary Students (TEAPPS) grant program for students at certain public institutions of higher education.
Relating to the establishment of the Texas Students with Disabilities Scholarship Program for certain students at public institutions of higher education.
Relating to the establishment of the Texas Students with Disabilities Scholarship Program for certain students at public institutions of higher education.