Learning Outcomes

Hello!

I wanted to spend time on this posting discussing the different learning outcomes I gained by doing research and talking to experts in the field. I would like to thank Dr. Carla Winters for steering me in the right direction on this topic. Compliance should be a priority to all who are in academic advising of athletes because failure to do so could damage the image and reputation of a college athletics department. NCAA and other governing bodies of athletics have policies in place to ensure the student is protected.

 It became evident to me that the student-athlete is under more supervision that the average student does not get. For example, if a student-athlete is failing a course, tutoring is require for them to attend. It is almost as if every aspect of their life is policed, so where does the opportunity for growth and development, their whole collegiate experience is scheduled? I would love to see more of a student life perspective develop within athletics.

Appreciating diversity is also a very important aspect in realizing within athletics. Dr. Winters told me that athletics are the most diverse group of students at OU. People from various socio-economic backgrounds, races, ethnicities, and sexual orientations are all represented. Inclusive programming aimed at accepting diversity could be a way to develop more of a student life within athletics.

I would love to continue doing more research on how specific academic advising in athletics is in contrast to more traditional academic advising. Maybe even develop a compare and contrast chart that others could use in deciding which area of advising would be more satisfying to an individual.