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High-Impact Educational Practices

This guide spotlights UHD Library and other selected resources in high-impact educational practices, such as first-year seminars, learning communities, service learning, undergraduate research, and capstone experiences.

Introduction

George Kuh, considered a leader in the study of high-impact educational practices, calls them "active learning practices...that educational
research suggests increase rates of student retention and student engagement." And, as he notes, "historically underserved students tend to benefit more from engaging in educational purposeful activities than majority students." (High-Impact Educational Practices: What They Are, Who Has Access to Them, and Why They Matter, p. 9, 17.)

UHD HIPS Definition

High-Impact Practices

Ten high-impact educational practices have been identified by George Kuh in his work with the American Association of Colleges and Universities.

First Year Seminars and Experiences

Common Intellectual Experiences

Learning Communities

Writing-Intensive Courses

Collaborative Assignments and Projects

Undergraduate Research

Diversity/Global Learning

Service Learning, Community-Based Learning

Internships

Capstone Courses and Projects

Articles and books on specific high-impact educational practices can be found through OneSearch by searching for the name of the specific practice.

Background Reports

The Association of American Colleges and Universities' Liberal Education and America's Promise initiative has given rise to several important publications about high-impact educational practices.