1. Zoom into Advising: Bringing Technology into the Advising Realm
Danette Ross, Academic Advisor Brian Hinterscher, Director
College of Arts and Sciences, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville
Virtual Advising
Screen Sharing
“The biggest limit to technology’s value is that student’s cannot have a relationship with a computer, no matter how much information the computer has available.”
“If we allow technology to replace human advising, we will see a growth in the number of people who have college degrees but can’t translate any of those skills or knowledge into the workforce.”
-- Charlie Nutt
Challenge of Virtual Advising
“While perhaps broadly assumed that students prefer face-to-face interactions, academic advisors need to assess the advisees' personality types to choose the variety of interaction opportunities that best fit. For instance, the extroverted type who prefers a face-to-face interaction may appreciate incorporation of technologies such as Skype or FaceTime for engaging with the academic advisor when a physical presence is not possible.”
-- Trudi Gaines
“On the institutional side of the FERPA/privacy line, tools such as Interactive video and smartphones permit advisors and students to engage in face-to-face interactions.”
-- George Steele
Benefit of Virtual Advising
Impacts & Outcomes
Gaines, T. (2014), Technology and Academic Advising: Student Usage and Preferences. NACADA Journal: 2014, Vol. 34, No. 1, pp
Nutt, C. (2016, August 9), Straddle the Line: The Opportunities and Dangers of Technology in Advising. Retrieved from
Steele, G. (2014). Intentional Use of Technology for Academic Advising. NACADA Clearinghouse Resource Web site:
Wilson, N, personal communication, October 3, 2017,
Reach a larger number of students at one time
Disseminate information in a broader form through video recorded responses
Ability for video conferencing, distance advising for transfer and prospective students, group advising, etc.
“I sent her a Zoom request on June 20th and we were able to connect with no problems on June 22nd.  She and I discussed the English Education major and Speech Communication Education minor just fine.  I was able to use my dual screens to show her information on SIUE’s website, her academic record, and academic worksheets.  She and I discussed this information for approximately 35 minutes with ease.  She was able to ask specific questions and get answers immediately.  I also sent her information beforehand for the English Education program.  She was able to view me and I was able to see her with no issues.  Everything was clear in viewing and we both heard each other well.  She and I never had any disconnections during this zoom meeting.  I enjoyed using Zoom and would love to use this more as a tool in my office.”
--Nancy WIlson
Advisor Feedback