As our summer series continues, we dive into the topic of academic excellence, how it is linked to high grades and outstanding performance and how it also entails more than merely getting great results.

***

Academic achievement was once thought to be the most important outcome of formal educational experiences and although significant, researchers and policy makers are increasingly turning to social and emotional factors, as well as the relationships among them, as indicators of student well-being and psychological development.

“The University’s vision is (...) to create a stimulating, challenging and rewarding university experience in a world-class learning community, through sharing a unique fusion of education, research and professional practice that inspires our students and staff to enrich the world.” - Times Higher Education, Appointments, 5 September 2013¹.

Higher education shapes the future of our society. How can we ensure that the students we train positively impact our world?

Academic excellence forms the core of higher education, offering students the opportunity to acquire knowledge, develop critical thinking skills, and cultivate intellectual curiosity. Ensuring the best academic outcome possible not only enhances students' learning experience but also prepares them for their future lives as professionals. Let’s explore what fostering academic excellence in higher education means and how it positively impacts the overall student experience.

Do you offer an engaging learning environment?

Higher education aims to foster intellectual development and curiosity among students. By focusing on academic excellence, universities provide students with a platform to explore new ideas, challenge existing knowledge and develop critical thinking skills. Employing innovative teaching methods, such as project-based learning, collaborative discussions, and practical applications, fosters active student participation and deepens understanding. Such an environment encourages intellectual growth, critical thinking, and creativity, ultimately enhancing the student experience.

How are your students building their own community within your campus? Do you offer both on-campus and online forums? Online learning has several benefits keeping education accessible and can serve students across a wider geographic range.

What research and innovation opportunities do you provide?

European universities are at the forefront of research and innovation². By providing students with opportunities to engage in research projects, institutions cultivate a culture of curiosity and intellectual exploration. Participation in research activities allows students to apply theoretical concepts to real-world problems, foster research skills, master analytical thinking and work on their problem-solving abilities. Moreover, exposure to cutting-edge research enhances students' understanding of their field and prepares them for future careers in academia, industry, or entrepreneurship.

There are several ways you can offer research and innovation opportunities to students. One way is through industry partnerships. By striking up corporate partnerships, universities have more resources to undertake research, and they’re able to diversify their research areas. Another way is through research opportunity programmes available to students from within and outside the university.

Have you got the right academic support services?

Providing comprehensive academic support services is crucial for ensuring the best academic outcome for students. Institutions can offer a wide range of services, including academic advising, mentoring, tutoring, and writing centres. These resources assist students in:

• Overcoming academic challenges
• Improving their study skills
• Receiving personalised guidance to maximise their academic potential

Academic support services promote student success, boost confidence, and contribute to a positive and fulfilling educational experience.

Offer your students a mobile campus solution to signpost services and support that meets their needs.

Is mentorship and personalised guidance available to your students?

To enable students to reach academic excellence, you should also be providing personalised mentorship and guidance. Universities that achieve great student academic outcomes often provide dedicated faculty mentors and advisors who guide students on their academic journey. These mentors offer valuable insights, career advice, and support tailored to each student's individual needs. Through one-on-one interactions, students receive guidance that helps them navigate academic challenges, set achievable goals, and make informed decisions, resulting in a more fulfilling educational experience. How are you offering these services?  Are you relying on outdated appointment setting software and require in-person visits only?  Look to offer digital services and hybrid support through online portals meeting your students where they are.

Do you offer exchange programmes?

Participation in exchange programmes, such as Erasmus+³, allow students to study abroad and experience different academic cultures. These experiences broaden perspectives, foster cross-cultural understanding and promote the exchange of ideas and opinions. Collaborative research projects with international partners enhance students’ academic networks and provide exposure to diverse points of view, enriching their educational journey.

Exchange programmes create opportunities: opportunities for participants to learn, to prosper, and to work with others to solve shared problems and ensure a secure future. Exchanges create future leaders who instinctively appreciate the value of international collaboration, understanding, and empathy.

How committed are your to continuous improvement?

Ensuring academic excellence requires a commitment to continuous improvement and quality assurance. Prioritising academic outcomes means establishing robust quality assurance mechanisms. Regular evaluations, external accreditations, and feedback loops enable universities to identify areas for improvement and maintain high standards. By fostering a culture of continuous improvement, institutions guarantee the delivery of high-quality education, enhance the learning experience, and strengthen their reputation.

To conclude, academic excellence is the bedrock of higher education and plays a pivotal role in shaping the student experience. By fostering intellectual development, promoting knowledge transfer, and providing research opportunities, universities empower students to reach their full potential. The provision of mentorship, collaboration, and interdisciplinary learning enhances students' critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. With a commitment to continuous improvement and quality assurance, institutions can ensure that students receive an education that prepares them for success in their chosen careers, ultimately enriching their overall educational journey.

Let’s catch up next week for our next episode on the 3rd critical aspect of student experience: community & engagement!

In the meantime…

…Want to know more about how to deliver the best student experience possible? Download our guide Addressing the Six Critical Aspects of the Student Experience.

¹ The Concept of Excellence in Higher Education - ENQA

² The European University Association's Trends 2020 report highlighted that 92% of European universities offer research-based programs, reflecting the emphasis on research-oriented learning (EUA, 2020).

³ The European Commission's Erasmus+ Impact Study reported that over 3.6 million students have participated in the Erasmus+ program, benefiting from international exchange and collaboration (European Commission, 2020).