SUSTAIN SLO: Reenergizing Learning

Abstract

This paper addresses the challenge of representing the transformational learning that occurs when students participate in high impact practices such as project-based, multi-disciplinary activities, or first year experiences. This paper illustrates the context and components of one such multi-disciplinary, first year experience called SUSTAIN SLO, at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, and describes the use of qualitative narrative analysis done to gain insight into learning outcomes beyond typical institutional measures like retention and grades. To research these less quantifiable outcomes, 22 students were interviewed one year after their experience in SUSTAIN SLO. A team of one faculty member, a recent graduate, and four undergraduate students used qualitative analysis techniques to see how the student narratives spoke to these two questions: 1) How is SUSTAIN different than the traditional course experience? and 2) How did SUSTAIN affect you? In their interviews, students reported that SUSTAIN SLO was different than traditional experiences as it included 1) open assignments and structure, 2) a new look at education and learning, 3) different relationship with faculty and peers, 4) a recognition of the importance of space to be yourself, and 5) significant collaboration and team building. As for the impact of these differences, students reported 1) increased capacity for personal reflection, 2) a new sense of ownership in education, 3) a discovery of internal motivation and the joy of learning, and 4) deepened friendships that led to an increased capacity for collaboration and risk taking and an increased sense of support and resilience. The students also described negative aspects of their experiences, including 1) struggling to learn with the open assignments and structure, 2) difficulty forming lasting relationships in the emerging community, and 3) trouble integrating back into “normal” classes after their experience with SUSTAIN SLO. The paper explores these themes in more detail and concludes with a reflection by the undergraduate researchers on their experience in performing the research.