OSU-OKC launches virtual advising platform
OSU-OKC launches virtual academic advising platform
Video advising sessions allow students personal connection with advisors from any location
OKLAHOMA CITY (Nov. 13, 2019) – As a full-time student at Oklahoma State University-Oklahoma City, a work-study participant and a single mother, Cheri Tointigh often has a lot on her plate.
The enterprise development major has to balance several responsibilities, including making time to visit with her academic advisor to ensure she is in the classes she needs and on track to graduate.
That’s why Tointigh was thrilled to hear that Oklahoma State University-Oklahoma City (OSU-OKC) has launched a new virtual advising platform that allows students to take part in face-to-face sessions with academic advisors through a convenient video chat feature.
“The flexibility an option like this offers is fantastic,” she said. “Between classes, work and home life, it can be hard to find time to visit my advisor on campus. This allows me to visit them from wherever I am, but still get that same personal connection as if I were in their office.”
In its early stages, the program is being offered to students in select degree tracks, with a full release to all students expected in the first half 2020.
Sessions can be conducted on a computer with a webcam or on a student’s mobile device or tablet. The system even prompts students to test their connection and video capabilities.
The technology is convenient for local students who want to conduct a video chat session from home or their favorite coffee shop, but even more important for distance learners who may be hundreds of miles away from campus, said Venesha Harris, an academic advisor at OSU-OKC.
“As advisors, we feel like this is a great way to serve current and prospective students,” Harris said. “This technology will really allow us to meet our students where they are.”
Campus officials said they are not aware of other colleges or universities in Oklahoma offering this type of advising to students.
OSU-OKC President Brad Williams said enhancing the student experience is a key mission for the university.
“In today’s technologically driven world, schools can work harder and smarter to enrich the experience for our students,” Williams said. “We’re pleased to be on the front edge in connecting our students to the assistance they need, no matter where they are.”
For additional information about OSU-OKC’s new virtual advisement platform, email advisement@osuokc.edu.
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For media inquiries:
Nick Trougakos, OSU-OKC – nick.trougakos@osuokc.edu – (405) 945-9196
About Oklahoma State University-Oklahoma City
Oklahoma State University-Oklahoma City (OSU-OKC) is part of the modern land-grant system of Oklahoma State University. OSU-OKC is a two-year public institution, offering more than 40 degrees and certificate options. Through quality education, a supportive environment, leadership training and service opportunities, OSU-OKC trains students to work and educates them to lead. OSU-OKC graduates are found throughout the community serving as police officers, firefighters, nurses, teachers, healthcare professionals and business owners. More information is available at www.osuokc.edu.