SF State News {University Communications}

Image: Photos of SF State students and scenes from around campus

News Release


National survey reveals high-impact activities improve university learning

SF State ranked highly for teamwork, diversity and participatory learning


SAN FRANCISCO, November 5, 2007 -- A new study released today shows that activities that foster involvement and interaction are key to boosting the learning and development of university students. The survey demonstrates that students who take part in such activities as study abroad programs, team-based learning or community volunteering are more likely to be engaged with their studies and on track for academic success.

San Francisco State University was one of 610 higher education institutions that took part in the National Survey of Student Engagement (NSSE). SF State students gave the University high rankings for fostering teamwork and active learning approaches, and for maintaining a diverse learning environment both in and outside the classroom. A random sampling of more than 1,500 first-year and senior SF State students participated in the survey.

Robert A. Corrigan, SF State president, said "This feedback from our students confirms that action-oriented learning is valued at SF State, that community engagement is central, and that diversity is celebrated. The University remains firmly committed to providing a climate that supports and encourages active student engagement."

SF State is nationally recognized for its commitment to civic engagement, community service learning and cultural diversity. One of the top universities for campus diversity, SF State enrolls the highest number of international students at any comprehensive university nationwide and ranks 16th in the country awarding undergraduate degrees to minorities. SF State is a pioneer in learning through community, offering nearly 300 courses that combine academic study with community involvement. It was one of the first universities in the nation to record credit for community service learning on student transcripts. The Carnegie Foundation selected SF State among 76 U.S. colleges and universities for a new Community Engagement Classification, a designation that recognizes the University's substantial commitments to "teaching, learning and scholarship which engage faculty, students and community in mutually beneficial and respectful collaboration."

Sponsored by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching, the NSSE provides universities with data and insight that can help improve the student experience. More than 300,000 students across the U.S. and Canada were consulted for the survey. The results and analysis appear in the NSSE report "Experiences That Matter: Enhancing Student Learning and Success."


For more information, see the National Survey of Student Engagement web site: www.nsse.iub.edu

 

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