The Role of Interpersonal Communication in the Induction and Adaptation Process of First-Year Students to Higher Education

Abstract

Presenter: Catalin Tutuianu, National University of Political Studies and Public Administration (SNSPA) Romania Discussant: Mariëtte Huizinga, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam Chair: Daniel Thiele In this seminar, I researched the role of interpersonal communication in the induction and adaptation process of first-year students to higher education. I have also highlighted the importance of first-year students' transition to higher education, and to successfully manage this transition, a process of induction and adaptation to the new environment is necessary. The process of induction and adaptation was measured using data on retention and dropout, but also from information on academic satisfaction and performance of students. This induction process is mediated by interpersonal communication, especially in the relationship between students and teachers, students and other students, and between students and administrative staff. The overall purpose of this research is to investigate the role of interpersonal communication in the integration process of first-year students of higher education. Specifically, I will examine the factors, barriers, and effects of integrating first-year students and the methods and strategies to support their integration. For methodological design, I will conduct a mixed-methods research study, using quantitative methods (questionnaire) with qualitative methods (semi-structured interviews). The participant group will consist of first-year students, professors, and administrative staff from SNSPA and other universities from Romania.