Putting Students First: How Colleges Develop Students Purposefully

by Larry A. Braskamp

In Putting Students First , the authors argue that colleges can and should invest in holistic student development by recognizing and building on the students’ search for purpose in life, intellectually, spiritually, and morally. Based on a study conducted at ten religiously-affiliated schools, the book urges all colleges to rethink their approach to teaching and advising the increasingly diverse students of today; their critical mission should be to prepare students to become ethically responsible and active contributors to society, as well as critical thinkers and skilled professionals. Putting Students First offers perspectives and recommendations in areas of holistic student development such as By organizing the campus environment into “4Cs”—culture, curriculum, cocurriculum, and community—the authors create a conceptual framework for faculty, student affairs staff, and administrators to discuss, plan, and create college environments that effectively support the learning and development of students. Each chapter includes an introduction, evidence and analysis, a summary, and questions to help readers consider how to develop students holistically on their own campuses.

246 pages, Hardcover

First published December 15, 2005

Reviews

[Gregory Linton · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book summarizes the results of a major study of religiously affiliated institutions to see how they develop students in a holistic way. It is full of practical ideas drawing from examples at different universities.