42
New Student Orientation (NSO) Summary Data: Summer 2010 Research Report No. 99-10 Office of Institutional Research, Planning, and Assessment Northern Virginia Community College October 2010
New Student Orientation (NSO) Summary Data:
Summer 2010
Research Report No. 99-10
Office of Institutional Research, Planning, and Assessment Northern Virginia Community College
October 2010
NORTHERN VIRGINIA COMMUNITY COLLEGE
OFFICE OF INSTITUTIONAL RESEARCH, PLANNING, AND ASSESSMENT
The purpose of the Office of Institutional Research, Planning, and Assessment is to conduct analytical studies and provide information in support of institutional planning, policy formulation and decision making. In addition, the office provides leadership and support in research related activities to members of the NOVA community engaged in planning and evaluating the institution’s success in accomplishing its mission.
4001 Wakefield Chapel Road Annandale, VA 22003-3796
(703) 323-3129 www.nvcc.edu/oir
When citing data from this report, the Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA) Office of Institutional Research,
Planning, and Assessment must be cited as the source.
i
New Student Orientation (NSO) Summary Data: Summer 2010
Table of Contents
Introduction ................................................................................................................................ 1
Alexandria Campus Summer 2010 Post-Test Summary Data .................................................... 2
Alexandria Campus NSO Student Evaluation Summary Data .................................................... 3
Alexandria – As a new college student, the NSO helped me to understand: ........................... 3
Alexandria – How satisfied were you with the following: ......................................................... 5
Annandale Campus Summer 2010 Post-Test Summary Data .................................................... 9
Annandale Campus NSO Student Evaluation Summary Data .................................................. 10
Annandale – As a new college student, the NSO helped me to understand: ........................ 10
Annandale – How satisfied were you with the following: ....................................................... 11
Loudoun Campus Summer 2010 Post-Test Summary Data ..................................................... 15
Loudoun Campus NSO Student Evaluation Summary Data ..................................................... 16
Loudoun – As a new college student, the NSO helped me to understand: ............................ 16
Loudoun – How satisfied were you with the following: .......................................................... 18
Manassas Campus Summer 2010 Post-Test Summary Data ................................................... 22
Manassas Campus NSO Student Evaluation Summary Data ................................................... 23
Manassas – As a new college student, the NSO helped me to understand: ......................... 23
Manassas – How satisfied were you with the following: ........................................................ 25
Woodbridge Campus Summer 2010 Post-Test Summary Data ................................................ 29
Woodbridge Campus NSO Student Evaluation Summary Data ................................................ 30
Woodbridge – As a new college student, the NSO helped me to understand: ...................... 30
Woodbridge – How satisfied were you with the following: ..................................................... 32
Conclusion ............................................................................................................................... 35
ii
List of Tables
Table AL 1. NSO Post-Test Summary .................................................................................... 2
Table AL 2. Range of NSO Post-Test Scores ......................................................................... 2
Table AL 3. Post-Test Questions Answered Correctly ............................................................ 2
Alexandria – As a new college student, the NSO helped me to understand: .............................. 3
AL Item 1: The role of the community college ......................................................................... 3
AL Item 2: The opportunities at NOVA for transfer or career preparation ................................ 3
AL Item 3: The expectations of college administrators and faculty in an academic environment ............................................................................................................................................... 4
AL Item 4: How to access campus resources and personnel when I need assistance ............ 4
AL Item 5: The importance of becoming involved in the campus community .......................... 4
Alexandria – How satisfied were you with the following: ............................................................. 5
AL Item 6: Online Registration for NSO .................................................................................. 5
AL Item 7: Availability of NSO Sessions ................................................................................. 5
AL Item 8: Resource Fair ........................................................................................................ 5
AL Item 9: Breakout Sessions ................................................................................................ 6
AL Item 10: Campus Tour....................................................................................................... 6
AL Item 11: Establishing an early connection with the college ................................................ 7
AL Item 12: Having a clear academic plan and pathway to begin my first year at NOVA ........ 7
AL Item 13: Please indicate your race/ethnicity: ..................................................................... 8
AL Item 14: Age ...................................................................................................................... 8
AL Item 15: Is English your second language? ....................................................................... 8
Table AN 1. NSO Post-Test Summary.................................................................................... 9
Table AN 2. Range of NSO Post-Test Scores ........................................................................ 9
Table AN 3. Post-Test Questions Answered Correctly ............................................................ 9
Annandale – As a new college student, the NSO helped me to understand: ............................ 10
AN Item 1: The role of the community college ...................................................................... 10
AN Item 2: The opportunities at NOVA for transfer or career preparation ............................. 10
AN Item 3: The expectations of college administrators and faculty in an academic environment.......................................................................................................................... 10
AN Item 4: How to access campus resources and personnel when I need assistance ......... 11
AN Item 5: The importance of becoming involved in the campus community ........................ 11
Annandale – How satisfied were you with the following: ........................................................... 11
AN Item 6: Online Registration for NSO ................................................................................ 11
AN Item 7: Availability of NSO Sessions ............................................................................... 12
AN Item 8: Resource Fair ..................................................................................................... 12
AN Item 9: Breakout Sessions .............................................................................................. 12
iii
AN Item 10: Campus Tour .................................................................................................... 13
AN Item 11: Establishing an early connection with the college ............................................. 13
AN Item 12: Having a clear academic plan and pathway to begin my first year at NOVA ..... 13
AN Item 13: Please indicate your race/ethnicity: ................................................................... 14
AN Item 14: Age ................................................................................................................... 14
AN Item 15: Is English your second language? .................................................................... 14
Table LO 1. NSO Post-Test Summary .................................................................................. 15
Table LO 2. Range of NSO Post-Test Scores ....................................................................... 15
Table LO 3. Post-Test Questions Answered Correctly .......................................................... 15
Loudoun – As a new college student, the NSO helped me to understand: ............................... 16
LO Item 1: The role of the community college....................................................................... 16
LO Item 2: The opportunities at NOVA for transfer or career preparation ............................. 16
LO Item 3: The expectations of college administrators and faculty in an academic environment.......................................................................................................................... 17
LO Item 4: How to access campus resources and personnel when I need assistance .......... 17
LO Item 5: The importance of becoming involved in the campus community ........................ 17
Loudoun – How satisfied were you with the following: .............................................................. 18
LO Item 6: Online Registration for NSO ................................................................................ 18
LO Item 7: Availability of NSO Sessions ............................................................................... 18
LO Item 8: Resource Fair ..................................................................................................... 18
LO Item 9: Breakout Sessions .............................................................................................. 19
LO Item 10: Campus Tour .................................................................................................... 19
LO Item 11: Establishing an early connection with the college .............................................. 19
LO Item 12: Having a clear academic plan and pathway to begin my first year at NOVA ...... 20
LO Item 13: Please indicate your race/ethnicity: ................................................................... 20
LO Item 14: Age ................................................................................................................... 20
LO Item 15: Is English your second language? ..................................................................... 21
Table MA 1. NSO Post-Test Summary ................................................................................. 22
Table MA 2. Range of NSO Post-Test Scores ...................................................................... 22
Table MA 3. Post-Test Questions Answered Correctly ......................................................... 22
Manassas – As a new college student, the NSO helped me to understand: ............................. 23
MA Item 1: The role of the community college ...................................................................... 23
MA Item 2: The opportunities at NOVA for transfer or career preparation ............................. 23
MA Item 3: The expectations of college administrators and faculty in an academic environment.......................................................................................................................... 24
MA Item 4: How to access campus resources and personnel when I need assistance ......... 24
MA Item 5: The importance of becoming involved in the campus community ....................... 24
iv
Manassas – How satisfied were you with the following: ........................................................... 25
MA Item 6: Online Registration for NSO ............................................................................... 25
MA Item 7: Availability of NSO Sessions .............................................................................. 25
MA Item 8: Resource Fair ..................................................................................................... 25
MA Item 9: Breakout Sessions ............................................................................................. 26
MA Item 10: Campus Tour .................................................................................................... 26
MA Item 11: Establishing an early connection with the college ............................................. 26
MA Item 12: Having a clear academic plan and pathway to begin my first year at NOVA ..... 27
MA Item 13: Please indicate your race/ethnicity: .................................................................. 27
MA Item 14: Age ................................................................................................................... 28
MA Item 15: Is English your second language? .................................................................... 28
Table WO 1. NSO Post-Test Summary ................................................................................ 29
Table WO 2. Range of NSO Post-Test Scores ..................................................................... 29
Table WO 3. Post-Test Questions Answered Correctly ........................................................ 29
Woodbridge – As a new college student, the NSO helped me to understand: .......................... 30
WO Item 1: The role of the community college ..................................................................... 30
WO Item 2: The opportunities at NOVA for transfer or career preparation ............................ 30
WO Item 3: The expectations of college administrators and faculty in an academic environment.......................................................................................................................... 31
WO Item 4: How to access campus resources and personnel when I need assistance ........ 31
WO Item 5: The importance of becoming involved in the campus community....................... 31
Woodbridge – How satisfied were you with the following: ........................................................ 32
WO Item 6: Online Registration for NSO .............................................................................. 32
WO Item 7: Availability of NSO Sessions .............................................................................. 32
WO Item 8: Resource Fair .................................................................................................... 32
WO Item 9: Breakout Sessions ............................................................................................. 33
WO Item 10: Campus Tour ................................................................................................... 33
WO Item 11: Establishing an early connection with the college ............................................ 33
WO Item 12: Having a clear academic plan and pathway to begin my first year at NOVA .... 34
WO Item 13: Please indicate your race/ethnicity: .................................................................. 34
WO Item 14: Age .................................................................................................................. 34
WO Item 15: Is English your second language? ................................................................... 34
1
New Student Orientation (NSO): Summer 2010
Introduction As part of the Achieving the Dream (AtD) initiative, there are several First-Year Experience strategies to increase retention and student success. One of the key strategies being implemented at Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA) is New Student Orientation (NSO). During Summer 2010, five NOVA campuses conducted NSO for incoming students. This report presents post-test and evaluation survey results for the students who attended NSO this summer.
2
Alexandria Campus Summer 2010 Post-Test Summary Data
As a part of the NSO agenda, students are informed about College services and programs. After Orientation, a survey asking five basic questions about campus services and programs is given to the NSO attendees (“post-test”). The following data present the average and range of total scores for the post-test for NSO attendees at the Alexandria Campus. In addition, a table presenting each question and the number of correct answers for each question is given for the post-test. Each post-test was scored by awarding 1 point for every correct answer and 0 points for an incorrect answer. The maximum allowable total score for a given post-test is 5 points if every question is answered correctly. The minimum allowable total score is 0 if every question is answered incorrectly.
Table AL 1. NSO Post-Test Summary
Post-Test
Total number of tests completed 203
Average Score 3.27
Table AL 2. Range of NSO Post-Test Scores
Post-Test
Lowest Total Score 1
Highest Total Score 5
In the table below, the total number of responses for each question and the total number and percentage of correct responses are presented. The percentage provides a way to measure, after participating in the NSO, the understanding of concepts in the post-test.
Table AL 3. Post-Test Questions Answered Correctly
Questions
Post-Test
Total Responses
Correct responses
# # %
Q1. NOVA provides the following co-curricular activities college wide: d) All of the above 193 173 89.64%
Q2. When creating my course schedule for future semesters, it is important to consider: d) All of the above 201 187 93.03%
Q3. The following associate degrees are designed for transfer to a college/university: b) Associate of Science (A.S.), Associate of Arts (A.A.) 198 141 71.21%
Q4. The following resources are available for academic support through Learning Resource Services at each campus: b) Library, Computer Labs, Learning Labs, Tutoring, Testing Center 194 80 41.24%
Q5. The current President of Northern Virginia Community College is: a) Robert Templin 174 83 47.70%
3
Alexandria Campus NSO Student Evaluation Summary Data
In addition to post-tests, NSO attendees were asked to fill out an evaluation of the session they attended. The evaluation asked the students to rate their level of agreement/disagreement with important concepts about NOVA. The evaluation also asked students to rate their level of satisfaction on various aspects of the NSO session that they attended. Demographic information was also requested at the end of the evaluation. This section presents the number of responses and relative percents for each item in the evaluation. If a response category (e.g., “disagree”) is not included under an item, there were no responses given for that category. “No Response” indicates the number of attendees who did not respond to the item.
Alexandria – As a new college student, the NSO helped me to understand:
Scale = Strongly Agree, Agree, Neutral, Disagree, Strongly Disagree, N/A
AL Item 1: The role of the community college
Q1 Number Percent
Strongly Agree 101 48.56
Agree 86 41.35
Neutral 16 7.69
N/A 3 1.44
No Response 2 0.96
Total 208 100.00
AL Item 2: The opportunities at NOVA for transfer or career preparation
Q2 Number Percent
Strongly Agree 106 50.96
Agree 82 39.42
Neutral 15 7.21
No Response 5 2.40
Total 208 100.00
Note: Percent totals throughout the report may not sum exactly to 100.00 due to rounding.
4
Alexandria – As a new college student, the NSO helped me to understand:
Scale = Strongly Agree, Agree, Neutral, Disagree, Strongly Disagree, N/A
AL Item 3: The expectations of college administrators and faculty in an academic environment
Q3 Number Percent
Strongly Agree 87 41.83
Agree 84 40.38
Neutral 26 12.50
Disagree 7 3.37
No Response 4 1.92
Total 208 100.00
AL Item 4: How to access campus resources and personnel when I need assistance
Q4 Number Percent
Strongly Agree 103 49.52
Agree 73 35.10
Neutral 24 11.54
Disagree 3 1.44
No Response 5 2.40
Total 208 100.00
AL Item 5: The importance of becoming involved in the campus community
Q5 Number Percent
Strongly Agree 92 44.23
Agree 74 35.58
Neutral 30 14.42
Disagree 7 3.37
Strongly Disagree 1 0.48
No Response 4 1.92
Total 208 100.00
5
Alexandria – How satisfied were you with the following:
Scale = Very Satisfied, Satisfied, Neutral, Dissatisfied, Strongly Dissatisfied, N/A
AL Item 6: Online Registration for NSO
Q6 Number Percent
Very Satisfied 92 44.23
Satisfied 78 37.50
Neutral 22 10.58
Dissatisfied 5 2.40
N/A 7 3.37
No Response 4 1.92
Total 208 100.00
AL Item 7: Availability of NSO Sessions
Q7 Number Percent
Very Satisfied 82 39.42
Satisfied 90 43.27
Neutral 21 10.10
Dissatisfied 6 2.88
Strongly Dissatisfied 2 0.96
N/A 1 0.48
No Response 6 2.88
Total 208 100.00
AL Item 8: Resource Fair
Q8 Number Percent
Very Satisfied 63 30.29
Satisfied 66 31.73
Neutral 39 18.75
Dissatisfied 3 1.44
Strongly Dissatisfied 2 0.96
N/A 26 12.50
No Response 9 4.33
Total 208 100.00
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Alexandria – How satisfied were you with the following:
Scale = Very Satisfied, Satisfied, Neutral, Dissatisfied, Strongly Dissatisfied, N/A
AL Item 9: Breakout Sessions
Q9 Number Percent
Very Satisfied 58 27.88
Satisfied 74 35.58
Neutral 42 20.19
Dissatisfied 9 4.33
Strongly Dissatisfied 2 0.96
N/A 15 7.21
No Response 8 3.85
Total 208 100.00
AL Item 10: Campus Tour
Q10 Number Percent
Very Satisfied 50 24.04
Satisfied 52 25.00
Neutral 38 18.27
Dissatisfied 11 5.29
Strongly Dissatisfied 7 3.37
N/A 42 20.19
No Response 8 3.85
Total 208 100.00
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Alexandria – How satisfied were you with the following:
Scale = Very Satisfied, Satisfied, Neutral, Dissatisfied, Strongly Dissatisfied, N/A
AL Item 11: Establishing an early connection with the college
Q11 Number Percent
Very Satisfied 66 31.73
Satisfied 90 43.27
Neutral 38 18.27
Dissatisfied 2 0.96
Strongly Dissatisfied 3 1.44
N/A 3 1.44
No Response 6 2.88
Total 208 100.00
AL Item 12: Having a clear academic plan and pathway to begin my first year at NOVA
Q12 Number Percent
Very Satisfied 73 35.10
Satisfied 84 40.38
Neutral 36 17.31
Dissatisfied 5 2.40
Strongly Dissatisfied 1 0.48
N/A 3 1.44
No Response 6 2.88
Total 208 100.00
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Alexandria-
AL Item 13: Please indicate your race/ethnicity:
Q13 Number Percent
American Indian or Alaskan Native 3 1.44
Asian Indian 3 1.44
Asian or Pacific Islander 11 5.29
Black or African American 43 20.67
Hispanic, Latino, or Spanish 65 31.25
White 4 1.92
Other Race 54 25.96
Multiple Race 21 10.10
No Response 4 1.92
Total 208 100.00
AL Item 14: Age
Q14 Number Percent
18-21 years 160 76.92
22-31 years 14 6.73
32-41 years 11 5.29
42-51 years 3 1.44
Over 51 years 5 2.40
No Response 15 7.21
Total 208 100.00
AL Item 15: Is English your second language?
Q15 Number Percent
Yes 62 29.81
No 139 66.83
No Response 7 3.37
Total 208 100.00
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Annandale Campus Summer 2010 Post-Test Summary Data
As a part of the NSO agenda, students are informed about College services and programs. After Orientation, a survey asking five basic questions about campus services and programs is given to the NSO attendees (“post-test”). The following data present the average and range of total scores for the post-test for NSO attendees at the Annandale Campus. In addition, a table presenting each question and the number of correct answers for each question is given for the post-test. Each post-test was scored by awarding 1 point for every correct answer and 0 points for an incorrect answer. The maximum allowable total score for a given post-test is 5 points if every question is answered correctly. The minimum allowable total score is 0 if every question is answered incorrectly.
Table AN 1. NSO Post-Test Summary
Post-Test
Total number of tests completed 207
Average Score 3.49
Table AN 2. Range of NSO Post-Test Scores
Post-Test
Lowest Total Score 0
Highest Total Score 5
In the table below, the total number of responses for each question and the total number and percentage of correct responses are presented. The percentage provides a way to measure, after participating in the NSO, the understanding of concepts in the post-test.
Table AN 3. Post-Test Questions Answered Correctly
Questions
Post-Test
Total Responses
Correct responses
# # %
Q1. NOVA provides the following co-curricular activities college wide: d) All of the above 206 188 91.26%
Q2. When creating my course schedule for future semesters, it is important to consider: d) All of the above 207 200 96.62%
Q3. The following associate degrees are designed for transfer to a college/university: b) Associate of Science (A.S.), Associate of Arts (A.A.) 195 134 68.72%
Q4. The following resources are available for academic support through Learning Resource Services at each campus: b) Library, Computer Labs, Learning Labs, Tutoring, Testing Center 192 104 54.17%
Q5. The current President of Northern Virginia Community College is: a) Robert Templin 178 96 53.93%
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Annandale Campus NSO Student Evaluation Summary Data
In addition to post-tests, NSO attendees were asked to fill out an evaluation of the session they attended. The evaluation asked the students to rate their level of agreement/disagreement with important concepts about NOVA. The evaluation also asked students to rate their level of satisfaction on various aspects of the NSO session that they attended. Demographic information was also requested at the end of the evaluation. This section presents the number of responses and relative percents for each item in the evaluation. If a response category (e.g., “disagree”) is not included under an item, there were no responses given for that category. “No Response” indicates that no responses were given for the item.
Annandale – As a new college student, the NSO helped me to understand:
Scale = Strongly Agree, Agree, Neutral, Disagree, Strongly Disagree, N/A
AN Item 1: The role of the community college
Q1 Number Percent
Strongly Agree 104 40.47
Agree 128 49.81
Neutral 19 7.39
Disagree 4 1.56
Strongly Disagree 1 0.39
N/A 1 0.39
Total 257 100.00
AN Item 2: The opportunities at NOVA for transfer or career preparation
Q2 Number Percent
Strongly Agree 132 51.36
Agree 100 38.91
Neutral 20 7.78
Disagree 4 1.56
N/A 1 0.39
Total 257 100.00
AN Item 3: The expectations of college administrators and faculty in an academic
environment
Q3 Number Percent
Strongly Agree 93 36.19
Agree 117 45.53
Neutral 42 16.34
Disagree 4 1.56
N/A 1 0.39
Total 257 100.00
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Annandale – As a new college student, the NSO helped me to understand:
Scale = Strongly Agree, Agree, Neutral, Disagree, Strongly Disagree, N/A
AN Item 4: How to access campus resources and personnel when I need assistance
Q4 Number Percent
Strongly Agree 134 52.14
Agree 102 39.69
Neutral 19 7.39
Disagree 2 0.78
Total 257 100.00
AN Item 5: The importance of becoming involved in the campus community
Q5 Number Percent
Strongly Agree 111 43.19
Agree 83 32.30
Neutral 54 21.01
Disagree 5 1.95
N/A 4 1.56
Total 257 100.00
Annandale – How satisfied were you with the following:
Scale = Very Satisfied, Satisfied, Neutral, Dissatisfied, Strongly Dissatisfied, N/A
AN Item 6: Online Registration for NSO
Q6 Number Percent
Very Satisfied 132 51.36
Satisfied 89 34.63
Neutral 28 10.89
Dissatisfied 3 1.17
N/A 5 1.95
Total 257 100.00
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Annandale – How satisfied were you with the following:
Scale = Very Satisfied, Satisfied, Neutral, Dissatisfied, Strongly Dissatisfied, N/A
AN Item 7: Availability of NSO Sessions
Q7 Number Percent
Very Satisfied 133 51.75
Satisfied 86 33.46
Neutral 31 12.06
Dissatisfied 2 0.78
Strongly Dissatisfied 1 0.39
N/A 4 1.56
Total 257 100.00
AN Item 8: Resource Fair
Q8 Number Percent
Very Satisfied 94 36.58
Satisfied 101 39.30
Neutral 39 15.18
Dissatisfied 2 0.78
Strongly Dissatisfied 3 1.17
N/A 18 7.00
Total 257 100.00
AN Item 9: Breakout Sessions
Q9 Number Percent
Very Satisfied 83 32.30
Satisfied 104 40.47
Neutral 44 17.12
Dissatisfied 6 2.33
Strongly Dissatisfied 6 2.33
N/A 14 5.45
Total 257 100.00
13
Annandale – How satisfied were you with the following:
Scale = Very Satisfied, Satisfied, Neutral, Dissatisfied, Strongly Dissatisfied, N/A
AN Item 10: Campus Tour
Q10 Number Percent
Very Satisfied 134 52.14
Satisfied 83 32.30
Neutral 30 11.67
Dissatisfied 3 1.17
Strongly Dissatisfied 2 0.78
N/A 5 1.95
Total 257 100.00
AN Item 11: Establishing an early connection with the college
Q11 Number Percent
Very Satisfied 116 45.14
Satisfied 93 36.19
Neutral 40 15.5
Dissatisfied 3 1.17
N/A 5 1.95
Total 257 100.00
AN Item 12: Having a clear academic plan and pathway to begin my first year at NOVA
Q12 Number Percent
Very Satisfied 111 43.19
Satisfied 93 36.19
Neutral 40 15.56
Dissatisfied 5 1.95
Strongly Dissatisfied 2 0.78
N/A 6 2.33
Total 257 100.00
14
Annandale-
AN Item 13: Please indicate your race/ethnicity:
Q13 Number Percent
Asian Indian 12 5.80
Asian or Pacific Islander 33 15.94
Black or African American 20 9.66
Hispanic, Latino, or Spanish 51 24.64
White 58 28.02
Other Race 13 6.28
Multiple Race 13 6.28
No Response 7 3.38
Total 207 100.00
AN Item 14: Age
Q14 Number Percent
18-21 years 191 92.27
22-31 years 7 3.38
Over 51 years 1 0.48
No Response 8 3.86
Total 207 100.00
AN Item 15: Is English your second language?
Q15 Number Percent
Yes 61 29.47
No 140 67.63
No Response 6 2.90
Total 207 100.00
15
Loudoun Campus Summer 2010 Post-Test Summary Data
As a part of the NSO agenda, students are informed about College services and programs. After Orientation, a survey asking five basic questions about campus services and programs is given to the NSO attendees (“post-test”). The following data present the average and range of total scores for the post-test for NSO attendees at the Loudoun Campus. In addition, a table presenting each question and the number of correct answers for each question is given for the post-test. Each post-test was scored by awarding 1 point for every correct answer and 0 points for an incorrect answer. The maximum allowable total score for a given post-test is 5 points if every question is answered correctly. The minimum allowable total score is 0 if every question is answered incorrectly.
Table LO 1. NSO Post-Test Summary
Post-Test
Total number of tests completed 176
Average Score 3.28
Table LO 2. Range of NSO Post-Test Scores
Post-Test
Lowest Total Score 1
Highest Total Score 5
In the table below, the total number of responses for each question and the total number and percentage of correct responses are presented. The percentage provides a way to measure, after participating in the NSO, the understanding of concepts in the post-test.
Table LO 3. Post-Test Questions Answered Correctly
Questions
Post-Test
Total Responses
Correct responses
# # %
Q1. NOVA provides the following co-curricular activities college wide: d) All of the above 172 165 95.93
Q2. When creating my course schedule for future semesters, it is important to consider: d) All of the above 170 163 95.88
Q3. The following associate degrees are designed for transfer to a college/university: b) Associate of Science (A.S.), Associate of Arts (A.A.) 166 110 66.27
Q4. The following resources are available for academic support through Learning Resource Services at each campus: b) Library, Computer Labs, Learning Labs, Tutoring, Testing Center 158 79 50.00
Q5. The current President of Northern Virginia Community College is: a) Robert Templin 128 61 47.66
16
Loudoun Campus NSO Student Evaluation Summary Data
In addition to post-tests, NSO attendees were asked to fill out an evaluation of the session they attended. The evaluation asked the students to rate their level of agreement/disagreement with important concepts about NOVA. The evaluation also asked students to rate their level of satisfaction on various aspects of the NSO session that they attended. Demographic information was also requested at the end of the evaluation. This section presents the number of responses and relative percents for each item in the evaluation. If a response category (e.g., “disagree”) is not included under an item, there were no responses given for that category. “No Response” indicates that no responses were given for the item.
Loudoun – As a new college student, the NSO helped me to understand:
Scale = Strongly Agree, Agree, Neutral, Disagree, Strongly Disagree, N/A
LO Item 1: The role of the community college
Q1 Number Percent
Strongly Agree 87 46.03
Agree 68 35.98
Neutral 19 10.05
Disagree 2 1.06
No Response 13 6.88
Total 189 100.00
LO Item 2: The opportunities at NOVA for transfer or career preparation
Q2 Number Percent
Strongly Agree 91 48.15
Agree 64 33.86
Neutral 21 11.11
Disagree 1 0.53
No Response 12 6.35
Total 189 100.00
17
Loudoun – As a new college student, the NSO helped me to understand:
Scale = Strongly Agree, Agree, Neutral, Disagree, Strongly Disagree, N/A
LO Item 3: The expectations of college administrators and faculty in an academic environment
Q3 Number Percent
Strongly Agree 81 42.86
Agree 68 35.98
Neutral 25 13.23
Disagree 1 0.53
No Response 14 7.41
Total 189 100.00
LO Item 4: How to access campus resources and personnel when I need assistance
Q4 Number Percent
Strongly Agree 91 48.15
Agree 70 37.04
Neutral 16 8.47
No Response 12 6.35
Total 189 100.00
LO Item 5: The importance of becoming involved in the campus community
Q5 Number Percent
Strongly Agree 78 41.27
Agree 71 37.57
Neutral 27 14.29
Disagree 2 1.06
No Response 11 5.82
Total 189 100.00
18
Loudoun – How satisfied were you with the following:
Scale = Very Satisfied, Satisfied, Neutral, Dissatisfied, Strongly Dissatisfied, N/A
LO Item 6: Online Registration for NSO
Q6 Number Percent
Very Satisfied 77 40.74
Satisfied 68 35.98
Neutral 29 15.34
Dissatisfied 1 0.53
Strongly Dissatisfied 1 0.53
N/A 2 1.06
No Response 11 5.82
Total 189 100.00
LO Item 7: Availability of NSO Sessions
Q7 Number Percent
Very Satisfied 80 42.33
Satisfied 65 34.39
Neutral 27 14.29
Dissatisfied 3 1.59
Strongly Dissatisfied 1 0.53
N/A 1 0.53
No Response 12 6.35
Total 189 100.00
LO Item 8: Resource Fair
Q8 Number Percent
Very Satisfied 51 26.98
Satisfied 68 35.98
Neutral 46 24.34
N/A 12 6.35
No Response 12 6.35
Total 189 100.00
19
Loudoun – How satisfied were you with the following:
Scale = Very Satisfied, Satisfied, Neutral, Dissatisfied, Strongly Dissatisfied, N/A
LO Item 9: Breakout Sessions
Q9 Number Percent
Very Satisfied 49 25.93
Satisfied 72 38.10
Neutral 45 23.81
Dissatisfied 2 1.06
N/A 8 4.23
No Response 13 6.88
Total 189 100.00
LO Item 10: Campus Tour
Q10 Number Percent
Very Satisfied 81 42.86
Satisfied 69 36.51
Neutral 22 11.64
Dissatisfied 2 1.06
Strongly Dissatisfied 1 0.53
No Response 14 7.41
Total 189 100.00
LO Item 11: Establishing an early connection with the college
Q11 Number Percent
Very Satisfied 68 35.98
Satisfied 74 39.15
Neutral 31 16.40
Dissatisfied 1 0.53
No Response 15 7.94
Total 189 100.00
20
Loudoun – How satisfied were you with the following:
Scale = Very Satisfied, Satisfied, Neutral, Dissatisfied, Strongly Dissatisfied, N/A
LO Item 12: Having a clear academic plan and pathway to begin my first year at NOVA
Q12 Number Percent
Very Satisfied 84 44.44
Satisfied 66 34.92
Neutral 23 12.17
Dissatisfied 4 2.12
No Response 12 6.35
Total 189 100.00
LO Item 13: Please indicate your race/ethnicity:
Q13 Number Percent
American Indian or Alaskan Native 3 1.59
Asian Indian 6 3.17
Asian or Pacific Islander 22 11.64
Black or African American 24 12.70
Hispanic, Latino, or Spanish 48 25.40
White 66 34.92
Other Race 8 4.23
Multiple Race 7 3.70
No Response 5 2.65
Total 189 100.00
LO Item 14: Age
Q14 Number Percent
18-21 years 161 85.19
22-31 years 6 3.17
32-41 years 2 1.06
42-51 years 1 0.53
Over 51 years 1 0.53
No Response 18 9.52
Total 189 100.00
21
Loudoun –
LO Item 15: Is English your second language?
Q15 Number Percent
Yes 47 24.87
No 128 67.72
No Response 14 7.41
Total 189 100.00
22
Manassas Campus Summer 2010 Post-Test Summary Data
As a part of the NSO agenda, students are informed about College services and programs. After Orientation, a survey asking five basic questions about campus services and programs is given to the NSO attendees (“post-test”). The following data present the average and range of total scores for the post-test for NSO attendees at the Manassas Campus. In addition, a table presenting each question and the number of correct answers for each question is given for the post-test. Each post-test was scored by awarding 1 point for every correct answer and 0 points for an incorrect answer. The maximum allowable total score for a given post-test is 5 points if every question is answered correctly. The minimum allowable total score is 0 if every question is answered incorrectly.
Table MA 1. NSO Post-Test Summary
Post-Test
Total number of tests completed 177
Average Score 3.25
Table MA 2. Range of NSO Post-Test Scores
Post-Test
Lowest Total Score 0
Highest Total Score 5
In the table below, the total number of responses for each question and the total number and percentage of correct responses are presented. The percentage provides a way to measure, after participating in the NSO, the understanding of concepts in the post-test.
Table MA 3. Post-Test Questions Answered Correctly
Questions
Post-Test
Total Responses
Correct responses
# # %
Q1. NOVA provides the following co-curricular activities college wide: d) All of the above 167 132 79.04%
Q2. When creating my course schedule for future semesters, it is important to consider: d) All of the above 173 160 92.49%
Q3. The following associate degrees are designed for transfer to a college/university: b) Associate of Science (A.S.), Associate of Arts (A.A.) 168 115 68.45%
Q4. The following resources are available for academic support through Learning Resource Services at each campus: b) Library, Computer Labs, Learning Labs, Tutoring, Testing Center 171 89 52.05%
Q5. The current President of Northern Virginia Community College is: a) Robert Templin 135 80 59.26%
23
Manassas Campus NSO Student Evaluation Summary Data
In addition to post-tests, NSO attendees were asked to fill out an evaluation of the session they attended. The evaluation asked the students to rate their level of agreement/disagreement with important concepts about NOVA. The evaluation also asked students to rate their level of satisfaction on various aspects of the NSO session that they attended. Demographic information was also requested at the end of the evaluation. This section presents the number of responses and relative percents for each item in the evaluation. If a response category (e.g., “disagree”) is not included under an item, there were no responses given for that category. “No Response” indicates that no responses were given for the item.
Manassas – As a new college student, the NSO helped me to understand:
Scale = Strongly Agree, Agree, Neutral, Disagree, Strongly Disagree, N/A
MA Item 1: The role of the community college
Q1 Number Percent
Strongly Agree 90 50.00
Agree 74 41.11
Neutral 13 7.22
N/A 1 0.56
No Response 2 1.11
Total 180 100.00
MA Item 2: The opportunities at NOVA for transfer or career preparation
Q2 Number Percent
Strongly Agree 106 58.89
Agree 68 37.78
Neutral 5 2.78
No Response 1 0.56
Total 180 100.00
24
Manassas – As a new college student, the NSO helped me to understand:
Scale = Strongly Agree, Agree, Neutral, Disagree, Strongly Disagree, N/A
MA Item 3: The expectations of college administrators and faculty in an academic environment
Q3 Number Percent
Strongly Agree 83 46.11
Agree 85 47.22
Neutral 10 5.56
No Response 2 1.11
Total 180 100.00
MA Item 4: How to access campus resources and personnel when I need assistance
Q4 Number Percent
Strongly Agree 107 59.44
Agree 60 33.33
Neutral 11 6.11
Disagree 1 0.56
No Response 1 0.56
Total 180 100.00
MA Item 5: The importance of becoming involved in the campus community
Q5 Number Percent
Strongly Agree 91 50.56
Agree 72 40.00
Neutral 15 8.33
Disagree 1 0.56
No Response 1 0.56
Total 180 100.00
25
Manassas – How satisfied were you with the following:
Scale = Very Satisfied, Satisfied, Neutral, Dissatisfied, Strongly Dissatisfied, N/A
MA Item 6: Online Registration for NSO
Q6 Number Percent
Very Satisfied 91 50.56
Satisfied 66 36.67
Neutral 15 8.33
Dissatisfied 3 1.67
Strongly Dissatisfied 1 0.56
N/A 3 1.67
No Response 1 0.56
Total 180 100.00
MA Item 7: Availability of NSO Sessions
Q7 Number Percent
Very Satisfied 88 48.89
Satisfied 65 36.11
Neutral 22 12.22
Dissatisfied 3 1.67
N/A 1 0.56
No Response 1 0.56
Total 180 100.00
MA Item 8: Resource Fair
Q8 Number Percent
Very Satisfied 64 35.56
Satisfied 70 38.89
Neutral 32 17.78
Strongly Dissatisfied 1 0.56
N/A 9 5.00
No Response 4 2.22
Total 180 100.00
26
Manassas – How satisfied were you with the following:
Scale = Very Satisfied, Satisfied, Neutral, Dissatisfied, Strongly Dissatisfied, N/A
MA Item 9: Breakout Sessions
Q9 Number Percent
Very Satisfied 77 42.78
Satisfied 82 45.56
Neutral 16 8.89
Dissatisfied 2 1.11
N/A 1 0.56
No Response 2 1.11
Total 180 100.00
MA Item 10: Campus Tour
Q10 Number Percent
Very Satisfied 75 41.67
Satisfied 80 44.44
Neutral 21 11.67
Dissatisfied 3 1.67
No Response 1 0.56
Total 180 100.00
MA Item 11: Establishing an early connection with the college
Q11 Number Percent
Very Satisfied 76 42.22
Satisfied 79 43.89
Neutral 22 12.22
Dissatisfied 1 0.56
N/A 1 0.56
No Response 1 0.56
Total 180 100.00
27
Manassas – How satisfied were you with the following:
Scale = Very Satisfied, Satisfied, Neutral, Dissatisfied, Strongly Dissatisfied, N/A
MA Item 12: Having a clear academic plan and pathway to begin my first year at NOVA
Q12 Number Percent
Very Satisfied 77 42.78
Satisfied 79 43.89
Neutral 19 10.56
Dissatisfied 2 1.11
Strongly Dissatisfied 1 0.56
N/A 1 0.56
No Response 1 0.56
Total 180 100.00
MA Item 13: Please indicate your race/ethnicity:
Q13 Number Percent
American Indian or Alaskan Native 2 1.11
Asian Indian 3 1.67
Asian or Pacific Islander 13 7.22
Black or African American 19 10.56
Hispanic, Latino, or Spanish 34 18.89
White 90 50.00
Other Race 1 0.56
Multiple Race 11 6.11
No Response 7 3.89
Total 180 100.00
28
Manassas –
MA Item 14: Age
Q14 Number Percent
18-21 years 153 85.00
22-31 years 8 4.44
32-41 years 4 2.22
42-51 years 2 1.11
No Response 13 7.22
Total 180 100.00
MA Item 15: Is English your second language?
Q15 Number Percent
Yes 30 16.67
No 138 76.67
No Response 12 6.67
Total 180 100.00
29
Woodbridge Campus Summer 2010 Post-Test Summary Data
As a part of the NSO agenda, students are informed about College services and programs. After Orientation, a survey asking five basic questions about campus services and programs is given to the NSO attendees (“post-test”). The following data present the average and range of total scores for the post-test for NSO attendees at the Woodbridge Campus. In addition, a table presenting each question and the number of correct answers for each question is given for the post-test. Each post-test was scored by awarding 1 point for every correct answer and 0 points for an incorrect answer. The maximum allowable total score for a given post-test is 5 points if every question is answered correctly. The minimum allowable total score is 0 if every question is answered incorrectly.
Table WO 1. NSO Post-Test Summary
Post-Test
Total number of tests completed 245
Average Score 3.23
Table WO 2. Range of NSO Post-Test Scores
Post-Test
Lowest Total Score 0
Highest Total Score 5
In the table below, the total number of responses for each question and the total number and percentage of correct responses are presented. The percentage provides a way to measure, after participating in the NSO, the understanding of concepts in the post-test.
Table WO 3. Post-Test Questions Answered Correctly
Questions
Post-Test
Total Responses
Correct responses
# # %
Q1. NOVA provides the following co-curricular activities college wide: d) All of the above 243 177 72.84%
Q2. When creating my course schedule for future semesters, it is important to consider: d) All of the above 243 214 88.07%
Q3. The following associate degrees are designed for transfer to a college/university: b) Associate of Science (A.S.), Associate of Arts (A.A.) 242 138 57.02%
Q4. The following resources are available for academic support through Learning Resource Services at each campus: b) Library, Computer Labs, Learning Labs, Tutoring, Testing Center 239 117 48.95%
Q5. The current President of Northern Virginia Community College is: a) Robert Templin 235 138 58.72%
30
Woodbridge Campus NSO Student Evaluation Summary Data
In addition to post-tests, NSO attendees were asked to fill out an evaluation of the session they attended. The evaluation asked the students to rate their level of agreement/disagreement with important concepts about NOVA. The evaluation also asked students to rate their level of satisfaction on various aspects of the NSO session that they attended. Demographic information was also requested at the end of the evaluation. This section presents the number of responses and relative percents for each item in the evaluation. If a response category (e.g., “disagree”) is not included under an item, there were no responses given for that category. “No Response” indicates that no responses were given for the item.
Woodbridge – As a new college student, the NSO helped me to understand:
Scale = Strongly Agree, Agree, Neutral, Disagree, Strongly Disagree, N/A
WO Item 1: The role of the community college
Q1 Number Percent
Strongly Agree 87 35.08 Agree 123 49.60 Neutral 28 11.29 Strongly Disagree 4 1.61 N/A 4 1.61 No Response 2 0.81
Total 248 100.00
WO Item 2: The opportunities at NOVA for transfer or career preparation
Q2 Number Percent
Strongly Agree 91 36.69 Agree 116 46.77 Neutral 28 11.29 Disagree 1 0.40 Strongly Disagree 5 2.02 N/A 3 1.21 No Response 4 1.61
Total 248 100.00
31
Woodbridge – As a new college student, the NSO helped me to understand:
Scale = Strongly Agree, Agree, Neutral, Disagree, Strongly Disagree, N/A
WO Item 3: The expectations of college administrators and faculty in an academic environment
Q3 Number Percent
Strongly Agree 80 32.26 Agree 119 47.98 Neutral 32 12.90 Disagree 6 2.42 Strongly Disagree 2 0.81 N/A 6 2.42 No Response 3 1.21
Total 248 100.00
WO Item 4: How to access campus resources and personnel when I need assistance
Q4 Number Percent
Strongly Agree 80 32.26 Agree 119 47.98 Neutral 34 13.71 Disagree 5 2.02 Strongly Disagree 4 1.61 N/A 3 1.21 No Response 3 1.21
Total 248 100.00
WO Item 5: The importance of becoming involved in the campus community
Q5 Number Percent
Strongly Agree 81 32.66 Agree 107 43.15 Neutral 40 16.13 Disagree 8 3.23 Strongly Disagree 5 2.02 N/A 6 2.42 No Response 1 0.40
Total 248 100.00
32
Woodbridge – How satisfied were you with the following:
Scale = Very Satisfied, Satisfied, Neutral, Dissatisfied, Strongly Dissatisfied, N/A
WO Item 6: Online Registration for NSO
Q6 Number Percent
Very Satisfied 80 32.26 Satisfied 91 36.69 Neutral 45 18.15 Dissatisfied 10 4.03 Strongly Dissatisfied
8 3.23 N/A 13 5.24 No Response 1 0.40
Total 248 100.00
WO Item 7: Availability of NSO Sessions
Q7 Number Percent
Very Satisfied 64 25.81 Satisfied 90 36.29 Neutral 55 22.18 Dissatisfied 12 4.84 Strongly Dissatisfied 11 4.44 N/A 7 2.82 No Response 9 3.63
Total 248 100.00
WO Item 8: Resource Fair
Q8 Number Percent
Very Satisfied 45 18.15 Satisfied 71 28.63 Neutral 76 30.65 Dissatisfied 6 2.42 Strongly Dissatisfied 7 2.82 N/A 28 11.29 No Response 15 6.05
Total 248 100.00
33
Woodbridge – How satisfied were you with the following:
Scale = Very Satisfied, Satisfied, Neutral, Dissatisfied, Strong Dissatisfied, N/A
WO Item 9: Breakout Sessions
Q9 Number Percent
Very Satisfied 77 31.05 Satisfied 98 39.52 Neutral 43 17.34 Dissatisfied 5 2.02 Strongly Dissatisfied 8 3.23 N/A 13 5.24 No Response 4 1.61
Total 248 100.00
WO Item 10: Campus Tour
Q10 Number Percent
Very Satisfied 105 42.34 Satisfied 81 32.66 Neutral 40 16.13 Dissatisfied 6 2.42 Strongly Dissatisfied
7 2.82 N/A 5 2.02 No Response 4 1.61
Total 248 100.00
WO Item 11: Establishing an early connection with the college
Q11 Number Percent
Very Satisfied 78 31.45 Satisfied 100 40.32 Neutral 50 20.16 Dissatisfied 7 2.82 Strongly Dissatisfied
7 2.82 N/A 4 1.61 No Response 2 0.81
Total 248 100.00
34
Woodbridge – How satisfied were you with the following:
Scale = Very Satisfied, Satisfied, Neutral, Dissatisfied, Strongly Dissatisfied, N/A
WO Item 12: Having a clear academic plan and pathway to begin my first year at NOVA
Q12 Number Percent
Very Satisfied 77 31.05 Satisfied 101 40.73 Neutral 49 19.76 Dissatisfied 3 1.21 Strongly Dissatisfied 6 2.42 N/A 8 3.23 No Response 4 1.61
Total 248 100.00
WO Item 13: Please indicate your race/ethnicity:
Q13 Number Percent
Black or African American 57 22.98 American Indian or Alaskan Native
1 0.40 Asian Indian 3 1.21 Asian or Pacific Islander 13 5.24 Hispanic, Latino, or Spanish 40 16.13 White 64 25.81 Other Race 7 2.82 Multiple Race 16 6.45 No Response 47 18.95
Total 248 100.00
WO Item 14: Age
Q14 Number Percent
18-21 years 195 78.63 22-31 years 9 3.63 Over 51 years 5 2.02 No Response 39 15.73
Total 248 100.00
WO Item 15: Is English your second language?
Q15 Number Percent
Yes 45 18.15 No 178 71.77 No Response 25 10.08
Total 248 100.00
35
Conclusion
As part of the Achieving the Dream (AtD) initiative, five NOVA campuses held New Student Orientation (NSO) for incoming students during Summer 2010. Each campus asked student attendees to complete an evaluation survey of their NSO session as well as a post-test. The following number of students completed evaluations and post-tests at each campus: the Alexandria campus- 208 and 203 students, the Annandale campus- 257 and 207 students, the Loudoun campus- 189 and 176 students, the Manassas campus- 180 and 177 students, and the Woodbridge campus- 248 and 245 students. The evaluation survey asked students to rate their level of agreement or disagreement with five areas that NSO was to help them with as new college students such as understanding the role of the community college or the opportunities at NOVA for transfer or career preparation. The survey also asked students to rate their satisfaction in seven areas about the NSO session including online registration and availability of sessions. At each campus, the majority of students strongly agreed or agreed that NSO sessions were helpful and were very satisfied or satisfied with the sessions except the campus tour at the Alexandria campus and the resource fair at the Woodbridge campus. The post-test included five questions about the college and its services and programs. The range of possible scores was 0 to 5 points. The average post-test scores for each campus were: 3.27 for the Alexandria campus, 3.49 for the Annandale campus, 3.28 for the Loudoun campus, 3.25 for the Manassas campus, and 3.23 for the Woodbridge campus.
NVCC Mission and Strategic Goals: 2005 – 2015
Mission The mission of Northern Virginia Community College is to respond to the educational needs of its dynamic and diverse constituencies through an array of comprehensive programs and services that facilitate learning and workforce development in an environment of open access and lifelong educational opportunities.
Strategic Goals
I. STUDENT SUCCESS – Northern Virginia Community College will move into the top tier
of community colleges with respect to the college readiness, developmental course
completion, retention, graduation, transfer, and career placement of its students.
II. ACCESS – Northern Virginia Community College will increase the number and diversity
of students being served to mirror the population growth of the region.
III. TEACHING AND LEARNING – Northern Virginia Community College will focus on
student success by creating an environment of world-class teaching and learning.
IV. EXCELLENCE – Northern Virginia Community College will develop ten focal points of
excellence in its educational programs and services that will be benchmarked to the best
in the nation and strategic to building the College's overall reputation for quality.
V. LEADERSHIP – Northern Virginia Community College will serve as a catalyst and a
leader in developing educational and economic opportunities for all Northern Virginians
and in maintaining the quality of life and economic competitiveness of the region.
VI. PARTNERSHIPS – Northern Virginia Community College will develop strategic
partnerships to create gateways of opportunity and an integrated educational system for
Northern Virginians who are pursuing the American Dream.
VII. RESOURCES – Northern Virginia Community College will increase its annual funding by
$100 million and expand its physical facilities by more than one million square feet in
new and renovated space. This includes the establishment of two additional campuses
at epicenters of the region’s population growth, as well as additional education and
training facilities in or near established population centers.
VIII. EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS AND CONTINUITY OF OPERATIONS – Northern
Virginia Community College will be recognized as a leader among institutions of higher
education in Virginia for its development and testing of emergency response and
continuity of operation plans.
![Top 10 Reason to attend New Student Orientation [NSO]](https://static.documents.pub/doc/80x56/623ad6e21dad8403765a9d41/top-10-reason-to-attend-new-student-orientation-nso.jpg)
