Chapter 2: Data-Driven Practices For Improving Learning And Personal Development For College Athletes

There is public concern about the extent to which student athletes experience gains in student learning and personal development in ways similar to their non-athlete peers. This is an issue of national importance as critics continue to question the appropriate role of intercollegiate athletics in higher education. This chapter focuses on using data-informed practices to facilitate student learning and personal development for student athletes. First we discuss what student learning and personal development means, followed by a brief discussion of relevant student-development theories. In addition we discuss college-athlete experiences and academic support programs designed to enhance learning and development, and monitor student athletes’ eligibility requirements. We conclude with a brief overview of the literature on gains in learning and personal development for athletes, followed by recommendations for using what we know and understand about this population to inform good practice in advising and counseling this special population of college students.