Using Technology in a First Year Experience Course

Colleges and universities are concerned with preparing students for success in their studies. One avenue has been to develop “University 101” or First Year Experience (FYE) courses that focus on academic achievement and student adjustment to college life. These courses, aimed at developing college-level skills and increasing student retention, should include a library component that is more than just a building tour. One way to reach as many students as possible is to create web-based instructional modules. This article discusses the development of a Web-based instructional module for a FYE course at the California State University, San Marcos. The successes and failures of integrating technology into a FYE course may help others concerned with reaching first-year students.