Appreciative Advising and Instruction

The foundation of student success in the College of Applied Human Sciences

The West Virginia University College of Applied Human Sciences has embraced Appreciative Advising and Instruction as a foundation for our approach to student success. Appreciative advising and instruction are innovative approaches used by faculty and staff that utilize dialogue and conversations with students to reveal their strengths, advantages, and opportunities. In essence, the approach is about talking with students and learning about their unique paths.

It is a student-centered approach that seeks to empower students to make informed decisions about their academic and personal lives. It is built on the foundation of positive psychology, which focuses on identifying and cultivating strengths.

In appreciative advising , advisors work with students to identify their unique strengths, passions, and interests. They help students develop a clear sense of purpose and create a vision for their future. Through this process, students become more self-aware, confident, and motivated to achieve their goals.

Appreciative instruction focuses on creating a positive classroom environment that supports and celebrates students' strengths and achievements. It encourages active student participation and collaboration, promoting a sense of community in the classroom.

Instructors use a variety of teaching strategies that foster creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. They provide timely and constructive feedback that builds on students' strengths and helps them to improve. By doing so, students become more engaged in their learning, leading to better academic outcomes.

The College of Applied Human Sciences is committed to student success by providing the proper support students need to thrive.  Appreciative advising has been shown to lead to numerous benefits: increased student engagement, retention, and academic success. It also enhances students' self-confidence, motivation, and sense of purpose. By focusing on students' strengths and positive attributes, we help students to realize their full potential.