Student perspective on learning and development outcomes of academic advising at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia

Abstract

This qualitative study investigates the learning and development outcomes of academic advising programs of 10 undergraduate students from three faculties at UTM. In-depth interviews were conducted to identify the relevant and desirable learning and development outcomes of academic advising. The interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim. The qualitative data was analyzed using a thematic analysis. Results showed that the relevant and desirable learning and development outcomes resulting from active participation in academic advising programs can be divided into seven themes. The themes are intellectual growth, effective communication, enhanced self-esteem, leadership development, meaningful interpersonal relation and social responsibility, satisfying and productive lifestyles, and attainment of personal and educational goals. The findings provide evidence on the impact of well-planned academic advising programs toward achievement of student learning and development outcomes. The findings can also be used to develop academic advising program standards to ensure the quality of academic advising programs in UTM.