ACC is considering a new rule that would require all students attending college for the first time to enroll in a 15-hour seminar on college survival skills beginning spring 2015.
Students would not earn credit for the seminar and would not receive a grade; however, students would have to achieve proficiency in seminar activities, and completion would be recorded on their transcript. Dual-credit high school students would be exempt from the requirement.
Those who do not complete the seminar in their first semester would have a hold placed on their record that would prevent them from registering for future classes until they met with a counselor.
The seminar would cover topics such as aligning academic goals with career plans, using college resources, effective study and test-taking strategies, and communication and collaboration skills. It would be offered on multiple campuses at varying times and days of the week. The college is proposing a $60 student fee for the seminar to cover expenses.
Pilot seminars planned
If approved, the college will conduct a small pilot of the seminar this summer, and additional pilots in the fall. Students would be able to participate in a pilot and fulfill the requirement at no charge.
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By Jennifer May 14, 2014 - 2:39 pm
Let me make sure I understand this correctly. For those of us wanting to go back to school but are intimidated and unsure you are going to put us through a 15 hour seminar that serves mainly to “pigeon hole” and if we don’t do well you penalize us by putting a hold on our submittal. Then, to further discourage those of us who may have a different learning ability you are going to charge us a fee. Am I the only one who thinks there is something wrong with this picture.
By jpowers May 15, 2014 - 1:02 pm
Jennifer — I understand your concern. In fact, the purpose of the first year seminar is to welcome you and dispel the intimidation and uncertainty that you may feel as a new student. You would not be graded on your performance in the seminar — its intent is to provide students with the tools they need to succeed in college through activities that are informative and enjoyable.
Required first year seminars or courses are becoming more common at colleges and universities, and there typically is a fee. We’re working to keep the cost to students as low as possible.
We are looking forward to supporting and guiding you at ACC.