Background. Higher Education (Higher Ed) has been and is a significant industry/business in the United States. Despite is standing as a part of U.S. culture, it is facing significant difficulties. The same is true of the stakeholders Higher Ed is obligated to serve, especially students, student families, and employers.

Purpose. The purpose of this exercise to develop an understanding of the a) cultural situation impacting Higher Ed; b) the Higher Ed challenges students are facing; and c) post-graduation difficulties confronting graduates, This information, in turn, will be used to build a definition of student engagement; one that captures insight into student needs supporting academic success. The definition will be used to identify the elements that are part of or contribute to engagement.

Next Step. The engagement definition will drive the development of a list of engagement behaviors or conditions that contribute to engagement from the students perspective. This list will be used to develop a questionnaire that assess priority elements of engagement.

Guidance. Use this worksheet to make notes on each of the following aspect of the research exercise. Additional information will be provided during our in-class discussion.

Key Cultural Driver Social Capital

A. Cultural Situation Impacting Higher Ed

B. Higher Ed Challenges Confronting Students

C. Post-Graduation Challenges Students Face

D. Definition and Elements of Student Engagement (50 points)

1. Definition.

2. Elements.