Episode 189: “We Have a Problem” with Many of Our Incoming Students

Hosts Kelvin and Tom examine recent trend data on the academic readiness and unique challenges of current K12 students who will be college students soon. Digital learning professionals can bring our strengths to the table to partner with other colleagues in better supporting these learners.

Content Links

• [Blog Post/White Paper from Ruffalo Noel Levitz] “TWO Demographic Cliffs? How and Why to Diversify Revenue Streams” (2024)
• [Report from Center for Democracy and Technology] “Out of Step: Students, Teachers in Stride with EdTech Threats While Parents Are Left Behind” (2025)
• [AASCU/EAB FREE Webinar Recording] “Bridging Student Readiness Gaps: A Call to Action for Institutional Preparedness” (June 2025)
• Research Study: “A Cross-Institutional Study of Instructional Characteristics and Student Outcomes: Are Quality Indicators of Online Courses Able to Predict Student Success?” (Joosten & Cusatis, 2019)
• Research Review: “Educational Technologies and Their Impact on Student Success for Racial and Ethnic Groups of Interest” (Joosten et al., 2021)
• Previous TOPcast Episodes Mentioned in This Episode
  • #98: “‘I Don’t Ever Want To Do [Online] Again’!” (with guest Ryan Rogers)
  • # 166: “High Structure Course Design for Online STEM Courses” ( with guest Dr. Justin Shaffer)
• All the Previous Student-Related TOPcast Episodes
• Kelvin’s Not-Quite-A-Newsletter, The Lift – insights and inspiration for academic innovation, digital learning, and leading (plus coffee tips!)

Just for Fun Pop Culture Links

• The Monorail Mug from #KelvinsCupCollection of Annotated Photos on Twitter
• The Monorail Safety Spiel and Music from Disney’s Magic Kingdom on SoundCloud

Extra Special Feature

• Video Version of This Episode!