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The Power of Community: Increasing Access through Online Activities and Involvement Opportunities

Description of the Effective Practice
Description of the Effective Practice: 
How this practice supports access: Saint Leo University Center for Online Learning is providing a centralized forum through which student involvement opportunities, support services, community building devices, and leadership avenues can be accessed. Known as iRoar, which stands for Involvement through Redefined Online Activities and Resources, this interface complements classroom offerings by going beyond essential services, such as financial aid, registration, and payments. iRoar provides reliable, student focused programs and services designed to allow easy navigation, access to faculty, staff, and students, and co-curricular growth opportunities.
Supporting Information for this Effective Practice
Evidence of Effectiveness: 
The results of a student satisfaction survey conducted in the spring of 2003 indicated higher satisfaction levels from students who were involved with iRoar, compared to those who were not involved. Future efforts include measurement of academic performance (GPA), retention levels, and satisfaction levels of students who are involved compared to those who are not.
Estimate the probable costs associated with this practice: 
Building a home-grown interface proved more cost effective than contracting a commercial portal. A technology specialist with programming skills would be required for development. Saint Leo contracted a consultant to assist in the development of iRoar. Additional staff knowledgeable in student development and web design is also required. Institution will recoup associated costs through increased retention.
Relation to other Pillars: 

Student satisfaction and learning effectiveness: Student involvement has shown to have a positive correlation to the academic performance levels of students and development of community (learning effectiveness). The centralized, easy to navigate interface and accessibility will positively affect student satisfaction.

Contact(s) for this Effective Practice
Email this contact: 
barry.hubbard@saintleo.edu