College Student Development: Applying Theory to Practice on the Diverse Campus 1st Edition (PDF Book)

by Wendy K. Killam PhD NCC CRC LPC (Editor), Suzanne Degges-White PhD LMHC-IN LPC-NC NCC (Editor)

Introduction: As the landscape of higher education becomes increasingly diverse, the understanding of student development theories and their practical application gains paramount importance. “College Student Development: Integrating Theory and Practice on a Diverse Campus” provides a timely and comprehensive exploration of key developmental theories and their relevance across a wide spectrum of student services catering to diverse student populations. This groundbreaking text emphasizes the application of these theories to nontraditional student groups, encompassing individuals transitioning careers, parents, veterans, and international students.

Key Features: This first edition illuminates the intersection of theoretical frameworks with the practical realities of today’s diverse student body. It delves into theories encompassing cognitive, ethical, moral, and personality development. Moreover, it examines identity development theories in the context of ethnicity, gender, and ability. Notably, the book extends its coverage to theories pertaining to disabilities, LGBTQ identities, and the selection of career paths and academic programs.

A distinctive attribute of this text lies in its approach to theory application beyond individual student understanding. It underscores how these theories can be harnessed to benefit student groups and effectively guide the coordination of student affairs services across the entire campus. To facilitate the bridging of theory and practice, the book presents engaging case vignettes that offer immersive glimpses into diverse perspectives. These vignettes aptly illustrate the practical application of theories to address a wide array of student types and issues.

Each chapter not only elucidates the history and evolution of the respective theory but also delves into its merits and limitations. The narrative extends further with pragmatic suggestions on effectively assisting students grappling with contemporary challenges. Each chapter culminates in questions for reflection, thereby reinforcing the concepts discussed and encouraging readers to explore the subject matter in-depth.

Target Audience: The book is tailored for both graduate programs focusing on college student development and student affairs professionals aspiring to augment their skill set. It encapsulates the essence of modern college student life and the evolving landscape of student affairs practices.

Conclusion: “College Student Development: Integrating Theory and Practice on a Diverse Campus” provides a comprehensive platform to bridge the gap between theory and real-world application in the context of higher education. By applying developmental theories to nontraditional student groups and embracing the diverse dimensions of contemporary campus life, this book empowers educators and practitioners to cater effectively to the evolving needs of students and advance the cause of higher education in an increasingly diverse world.

Product Details