Dive Brief:
- University of Virginia education professor Benjamin Castleman writes in a new book (The 160-Character Solution: How Text Messaging and Other Behavioral Strategies can Improve Education) how texting programs across the country have gotten students to be prepared for college.
- One experiment in Castleman's research sent weekly texts to thousands of recent high school graduates, resulting in a 70% enrollment rate compared to a 63% enrollment rate for students who didn't receive the texts.
- According to The Hechinger Report, colleges are using the programs to advise students ahead of matriculation and also finding success using texting to support student retention, but Castleman's data shows the programs should be just one part of broader efforts.
Dive Insight:
When it comes to harnessing modern technology to improve student outcomes, some of the most powerful tools come in the form of mobile technology, because many students don't go anywhere without their phones.
On college campuses, more than 90% of students show up with smartphones. Texting programs reach even those who haven't upgraded beyond the most basic cell phones. As part of a holistic program, texting initiatives can certainly be effective, affordable ways to get students the information they need.