The University of Hawaiʻi Board of Regents has recently approved a transformative initiative that promises to revolutionize student support across all 10 UH campuses. This ambitious project entails a $7.4 million, five-year subscription to two integrated technology platforms: EAB Navigate360 and EAB Edify. These platforms are not merely an investment in new technology; they are a critical component of a systemwide student success initiative geared toward closing achievement gaps and enhancing retention and graduation rates.
At the heart of this initiative is a pressing need for a more connected and comprehensive understanding of each student’s academic journey. UH President Wendy Hensel emphasized the significance of these platforms, stating, “These platforms leverage data we already collect but have never been able to connect in a way that provides a truly comprehensive view of each student’s journey.” With a proven track record of delivering substantial improvements in student outcomes, particularly in graduation and retention rates, these tools represent a pivotal step forward for the university.
Phased Implementation Plan
The implementation of these platforms will begin in 2025, with full integration expected by 2026. The systems employ advanced predictive models built on historical student data, allowing advisors and faculty to identify at-risk students early and offer targeted support. This means that interventions will take place before students are even aware that they may need help—a proactive approach that stands in stark contrast to more traditional, reactive measures.
For example, the system is designed to identify course combinations that correlate with lower completion rates, prompting faculty and advisers to suggest adjustments well before the semester commences. Similarly, if a student hasn’t engaged with their online courses within the first two weeks—an important signal of potential disengagement—the system can automatically send alerts and reminders to both the student and their support network.
Equitable and Consistent Support
Hensel notes that the introduction of these platforms will ensure equitable support across all campuses, regardless of a student’s location. Kim Siegenthaler, a senior advisor to Hensel tasked with overseeing the implementation, remarked on the significance of this technology: “By modernizing and integrating our technology infrastructure, we can establish a consistent standard of care for every student across UH.” This collective vision emphasizes the importance of early problem identification and effective responses to empower all students.
A Proven Track Record
Both Hensel and Siegenthaler are familiar with the positive results that similar systems can yield, having witnessed firsthand the transformative impact of EAB at Georgia State University (GSU). At GSU, the partnership began with an extensive analysis of student grades over a decade, setting the foundation for a predictive model capable of flagging students who might struggle. The result was proactive intervention measures that encompassed personalized advising, tutoring, and various academic support services.
“The system was proactive, not punitive,” said Hensel, highlighting its focus on preventing issues such as course misregistration and financial aid delays from negatively impacting student progress. Notably, GSU recorded significant improvements in both retention and graduation rates, particularly among historically underrepresented populations, with its four-year graduation rate jumping 13% since 2012.
Features of EAB Navigate360 and EAB Edify
EAB Navigate360 is tailored to enhance communication, streamline advising processes, and foster academic success through a range of features:
Population Health Analytics: This feature utilizes academic risk signals and key performance indicators (KPIs) like credit completion rates, grade averages, and attendance records to provide actionable insights.
Predictive Scoring: Advanced algorithms analyze historical data to identify potential risks and successes, allowing for targeted interventions before issues escalate.
Study Buddies: This functionality connects students enrolled in the same courses, promoting collaboration and peer support.
- Automated Alerts: Faculty and advisors receive timely notifications as soon as a student’s performance or attendance declines, ensuring immediate attention.
Complementing Navigate360 is EAB Edify, a robust data management platform that integrates various data sources, including academic performance and financial aid. This will facilitate more informed decision-making across campuses by breaking down longstanding data silos.
Commitment to Student Success
The combined capabilities of Navigate360 and Edify promise to empower the University of Hawaiʻi with comprehensive insights into student needs, improved operational efficiency, and coordinated support services. As President Hensel succinctly put it, “This is more than a technology upgrade; it’s a commitment to every student’s success.” By creating a culture grounded in data-informed decision-making, UH is paving the way for meaningful and measurable change that invests in the future of its student body.
In conclusion, the University of Hawaiʻi’s adoption of EAB Navigate360 and EAB Edify represents a significant leap forward in the realm of higher education student support. The proactive, data-driven strategies these platforms offer will not only address immediate academic challenges but also set the stage for long-term success among students across Hawaii. This initiative stands as a testament to the university’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that every student has the resources and support they need to thrive.
