A Holistic Perspective on Students’ Lives and Learning During COVID-19 Can Help Shape the University Experience

Abstract

The impact of COVID-19 on university students is multi-faceted and varies depending on the student profile. A study was conducted at a regional university in the Midwest. A quick-reaction or pulse study was done to assess the immediate effects on students in designated classes at the onset of the pandemic. A follow-up study was completed at the campus level during the subsequent fall semester. Naturally, quality of instruction and adequate technology are key to student success, but a more holistic understanding of students’ lives is necessary to properly support them during challenging times. While COVID-19 provided the context for this study, the benefits of the lessons learned can be ongoing.

Keywords:

• Student success
• COVID-19
• pandemic
• college
• higher education

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Michael L. Harris

Michael L. Harris is an Associate Professor of Business Administration at Indiana University Southeast. Dr. Harris has a PhD from the University of South Florida. He has over 20 years of industry experience at technology and software companies. His current research interests are in innovation and learning.

Kathryn W. Ernstberger

Kathryn W. Ernstberger is a Professor of Business Administration in the School of Business at Indiana University Southeast. She received her PhD from Indiana University. Her research and teaching activities are in the areas of statistics and analytics.

K. Christopher Cox

K. Christopher Cox is an Associate Professor of Marketing and Director of the Sanders Professional Sales Center at Indiana University Southeast. He earned his PhD from Texas Tech University. His teaching and research interests include persuasion, sales and negotiation pedagogy, and higher education marketing.

Carolyn F. Watson

Carolyn F. Watson is an Associate Professor of Marketing at Indiana University Southeast. She earned her PhD from the University of Alabama. Her teaching and research activities include topics related to sales and consumer behavior.