Using student development theory to inform practices in student affairs can help make decisions and explain why certain practices are meaningful.
This section will explore the following student development theories and how they can inform possible practices in student affairs, specifically relating to students’ development during their first year in college.
Why it’s important: Students need validation from professors and staff to realize their potential for success in college, especially during their first year.
Schlossberg’s Transition Theory
Why it’s important: Students are transitioning to college from high school, gap years, the workforce, the military, etc. and need support to navigate this transitional event in their life.
Why it’s important: First-year students will start to explore their social identity when entering college, or may face new contexts that cause them to question parts of their identity. It is important for student affairs professionals to support students’ identity development so that students are better equipped to understand themselves.