Breaking the Code for our Students

Lessons learned from the Navajo Code Talkers: helping students make the transition from Culture of Origin to Culture of Institution.

Breaking the Code for our StudentsDr. Sherfield’s research indicates Higher

Educations key to retention is to help students successfully make the transition from culture of origin to culture of Institution.

If a student is not with you a second semester they probably did not make the transition from culture of origin to culture of institution.

Every Student has to answer this question when they are looking at your college;

“Do people like me go here?”

Breaking the Code for our StudentsWhat are to key elements that

make up any culture?

How well does the key elements of your Intuitional culture match the culture those of the students you serve?

If there is a gap what can your institution do differently to close the gap?

Breaking the Code for our StudentsSamuel F. Sandoval

Breaking the Code for our StudentsThey had to navigate Multiple

Cultures◦Navajo◦Caucasian◦Military◦Chinese◦Japanese

◦Different culture each campaign(invasions)

Breaking the Code for our StudentsLanguage = The Code Talker had to

develop a new language within a language only unique to them.

◦What words do you use that are confusing?* Chinese vs Japanese / Bursar vs

Payment ◦What is the meaning of the words you use

and can they be confusing?* ‘Breakfast on the beach’ / Admitted

vs Enrolled

Breaking the Code for our StudentsWays to send the massage = The Code Talkers

had to develop a new way to communicate.* The Code vs the Morris Code* Current Generation vs ????

Breaking the Code for our StudentsNon-Verbal = The Code Talkers

had to adjust their body language and tone of voice.

* Hands in the Pockets vs Individual focus

* ‘ If I were Chief we would not be in this mess’ vs Using inviting tone of voice that creates a repeat customer.

Breaking the Code for our StudentsSherfield’s Research 47% better

chance of retaining a student if the student establishes meaningful contact with;◦One Faculty◦One Student◦One Staff member

Breaking the Code for our Students

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