The Theory & Practice of Advising eTutorial explores both informal and formal theories, including instrumental, descriptive, and normative theories, that have been taken up by advisors in their practice.

Upcoming Offering:
NOVEMBER 1 - DECEMBER 5, 2023

What you'll learn:

• Understand what theory is and why it is important to the practice of advising
• Identify instrumental, descriptive, and normative theories as well as informal theories
• Practice applying theory to practice
• Gain tools to continue learning about and applying theory to practice beyond those theories introduced in the course

Who this is for:

• New advising professionals
• Those interested in engaging in theory-informed advising practice with students

About this eTutorial:

One of the hallmarks of a profession is the creation and use of specialized knowledge to inform practice. As advising professionals, applying theory to practice is an important dimension of our work. But what is theory and how can it be used in advising? This eTutorial explores both informal and formal theories, including instrumental, descriptive, and normative theory, that have been taken up by advisors in their practice. Participants will explore models for applying theory to practice and try using these skills through assignments. Theory offers perspectives on everything from how advisors should interact with students to what the nature of the advising profession is. By participating in this eTutorial, advisors will gain a toolkit for understanding and using theory that will help them continue to learn and apply theory in their practice, even beyond those theories introduced in the course.

Format
Participants will complete in-depth readings, post replies to discussion boards, and complete quizzes and other assignments. Participants can work at their own pace within each week. There will be weekly assignments but no set time to be online. Participants will have the entire week to complete that week's content, which could be completed in several days or done during the week as their schedule allows. By offering this information in an online format, participants are provided a learning opportunity that can be accessed either in their own home or office, and at a time of day that works best for their schedules. Assignments, including discussion posts, quizzes, and readings will be required each week.

The eTutorial is 3.5 (3 1/2) weeks in length. Participants should expect to spend between four-eight hours per week completing the reading, posts, and assignments.

This eTutorial is structured in a manner that allows the participants to develop an international network through interaction with other members of their cohort through virtual chat rooms and discussion boards.

Moderators
Moderators will be assigned to assist those taking the eTutorial by posing questions for discussion, sharing successful practices, and answering questions.

Each week will include an assessment component including questions covering material and participation in topical discussions.
 
Completion
Upon successful completion (70% or better within the eTutorial) of all 3.5 weeks, the participant will receive a certificate of completion suitable for framing.

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