(DePaul University/Jamie Moncrief)DePaul's First-Year Academic Success Program had record-breaking enrollment this summer, with more than 220 students fulfilling a math or writing prerequisite. Traditionally conducted in-person, participation in the program increased by 70 percent a result of offering the courses online.
“FYAS is important for first-year students because it establishes a strong math and writing foundation for students to build upon as they continue their studies at DePaul," says Yesenia Sanchez-Giancola, director of the program. “FYAS was especially needed this year, as COVID-19 disrupted instruction across the country. Students were concerned about their gaps in learning and how they would navigate online education at the university. This program provided students a taste of online learning at DePaul and intentional support components to be successful."
FYAS is designed to help students complete prerequisite math or writing courses required for their major and the Liberal Studies Program. FYAS provides opportunities to take these courses during the summer— tuition-free for no-credit — with the ability to advance to the next math or writing course.
During the summer sessions, math and writing courses were asynchronous, with multiple synchronous support components, including live faculty office hours, success chats with an advisor, supplemental instruction and individual tutoring.
“FYAS worked well online due to the commitment of our faculty," Sanchez-Giancola says. “Even though the courses were asynchronous, the instructors communicated regularly with the students to troubleshoot challenges and celebrate their successes."
At the end of each summer session, students reported FYAS provided an introduction to online learning at DePaul, and they feel prepared for a remote fall quarter.
Visit the program's website to learn more.