Academically Adrift by Richard Arum and Josipa Roksa

Last updated: Oct 2, 2023

Summary of Academically Adrift by Richard Arum and Josipa Roksa

Academically Adrift by Richard Arum and Josipa Roksa is a comprehensive study that examines the state of higher education in the United States. The authors argue that despite the increasing number of students attending college, many are not gaining the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in the workforce.

The book is based on extensive research conducted over four years, involving a diverse sample of over 2,300 students from 24 different institutions. The authors used a range of measures, including standardized tests, surveys, and interviews, to assess student learning and engagement.

The findings of the study are alarming. Arum and Roksa reveal that a significant proportion of college students are not making substantial academic progress during their time in college. They argue that many students are not being challenged intellectually and are not developing critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and writing skills.

The authors attribute this lack of progress to several factors. Firstly, they argue that many students are not sufficiently engaged in their coursework. They spend minimal time studying and are often not required to complete rigorous assignments. Instead, they focus on socializing and extracurricular activities.

Secondly, Arum and Roksa highlight the role of ineffective teaching practices. They argue that many professors prioritize research over teaching and fail to provide students with the necessary guidance and support. Additionally, they find that a significant number of students are enrolled in courses that do not require much reading or writing, further limiting their intellectual development.

The consequences of this lack of academic progress are significant. Arum and Roksa argue that students who do not develop the necessary skills and knowledge in college are ill-prepared for the workforce. They are less likely to find meaningful employment and are more likely to struggle financially.

The authors conclude the book by calling for a reevaluation of higher education. They argue that colleges and universities need to prioritize student learning and engagement. They suggest implementing more rigorous academic standards, improving teaching practices, and increasing the emphasis on critical thinking and analytical reasoning.

In summary, Academically Adrift provides a comprehensive analysis of the state of higher education in the United States. The book highlights the lack of academic progress among college students and identifies the factors contributing to this problem. Arum and Roksa call for significant changes in higher education to ensure that students are adequately prepared for the challenges of the workforce.

1. Lack of rigor in college education

In "Academically Adrift," Arum and Roksa argue that many college students are not being challenged academically. They found that a significant number of students spend minimal time studying and are not required to complete rigorous coursework. This lack of rigor leads to a lack of critical thinking skills and deep learning. As a result, many college graduates are ill-prepared for the demands of the workforce.

This insight is actionable because it highlights the need for colleges and universities to prioritize academic rigor. Institutions should implement more challenging coursework, encourage active learning, and provide support for students to develop critical thinking skills. By doing so, colleges can better prepare students for the real world and ensure they are gaining the knowledge and skills necessary for success.

2. Decline in writing skills

Arum and Roksa's research also reveals a decline in writing skills among college students. They found that many students struggle to write coherent and well-structured essays, which are essential skills for effective communication. This decline in writing skills can be attributed to a lack of emphasis on writing instruction and practice in college.

To address this issue, colleges should prioritize writing instruction across disciplines. Professors should provide clear guidelines and expectations for writing assignments and offer feedback to help students improve their writing skills. Additionally, colleges can offer writing workshops and resources to support students in developing their writing abilities. By focusing on improving writing skills, colleges can better prepare students for success in their academic and professional lives.

3. Importance of high-impact practices

Arum and Roksa emphasize the importance of high-impact practices in promoting student engagement and learning. These practices include collaborative learning, undergraduate research, internships, and community service. Students who participate in high-impact practices are more likely to develop critical thinking skills, gain practical experience, and make connections between academic knowledge and real-world applications.

Colleges should prioritize the integration of high-impact practices into their curriculum and provide opportunities for all students to engage in these activities. By doing so, colleges can enhance student learning and increase student engagement and success. High-impact practices not only provide valuable learning experiences but also help students develop important skills and networks that can benefit them in their future careers.

4. Need for faculty involvement

Arum and Roksa argue that faculty involvement is crucial for student success. They found that students who have frequent interactions with faculty members, both inside and outside the classroom, are more likely to be engaged and academically successful. These interactions can include one-on-one meetings, mentorship, and collaborative research.

Colleges should encourage and support faculty members in building relationships with students. This can be done through professional development programs, incentives for faculty-student collaborations, and creating a culture that values and promotes faculty-student interactions. By fostering strong faculty-student relationships, colleges can enhance student learning, engagement, and overall success.

5. Impact of technology on learning

Arum and Roksa discuss the impact of technology on student learning and engagement. While technology can provide valuable resources and tools for learning, it can also be a distraction and hinder deep learning. They found that students who spend excessive time on social media and other online activities have lower academic performance.

Colleges should educate students on the responsible use of technology and provide guidelines for minimizing distractions. Additionally, professors can incorporate technology in meaningful ways to enhance learning, such as using online platforms for collaborative projects or providing interactive online resources. By promoting responsible and purposeful use of technology, colleges can help students maximize their learning potential.

6. Importance of feedback and assessment

Arum and Roksa emphasize the importance of timely and constructive feedback for student learning. They found that students who receive regular feedback on their assignments and exams are more likely to improve their performance and engage in deeper learning.

Colleges should prioritize providing timely and meaningful feedback to students. Professors can use rubrics, peer feedback, and individual meetings to provide constructive criticism and guidance. Additionally, colleges should invest in assessment practices that measure student learning outcomes effectively. By prioritizing feedback and assessment, colleges can support student growth and ensure that learning is taking place.

7. Role of student motivation

Arum and Roksa highlight the importance of student motivation in academic success. They found that students who are intrinsically motivated, have a sense of purpose, and set clear goals are more likely to be engaged and achieve higher academic performance.

Colleges should foster a culture of motivation and goal-setting among students. This can be done through orientation programs, mentorship, and career counseling. Additionally, colleges can provide opportunities for students to explore their interests and passions through extracurricular activities and internships. By promoting student motivation, colleges can enhance student engagement and success.

8. Need for accountability and transparency

Arum and Roksa argue for greater accountability and transparency in higher education. They advocate for colleges to be more transparent about their learning outcomes, graduation rates, and employment outcomes. This information can help students make informed decisions about their education and hold colleges accountable for their performance.

Colleges should provide clear and accessible information about their programs, outcomes, and resources. This can be done through websites, brochures, and regular communication with students and parents. Additionally, colleges should regularly assess and evaluate their programs to ensure they are meeting their intended goals. By promoting accountability and transparency, colleges can better serve their students and continuously improve their educational offerings.