Bridging Research & Praxis: Applying HEFWA Research to Strengthen Programs

Abstract

The presentation "Bridging Research to Praxis: Applying HEFWA Research to Strengthen Programs" by the HEFWA Research Committee outlines significant research efforts and findings aimed at enhancing financial wellness programs in higher education. Since 2020, the committee has conducted multiple surveys, qualitative studies, and analyses of institutional websites and chatbots.

Key research initiatives include:

HEFWA Survey of Financial Wellness Programs: Conducted three times, these surveys provide insights into programming, student engagement, staffing, and budget allocations across various institutions. Qualitative Study of Peer Financial Mentors: This study explores the recruitment, training, and experiences of peer financial mentors, highlighting the importance of soft skills, listening, and support from supervisors. Analysis of Financial Wellness Websites: Examining over 4,399 institutional websites, the study identifies the prevalence, naming conventions, and resource limitations of financial wellness webpages. Human-Computer Interaction Study on Chatbots: Investigating 177 chatbots, the study assesses their effectiveness in providing financial wellness counseling, revealing significant gaps and areas for improvement.

The presentation emphasizes the practical application of these research findings to improve financial wellness programs. Recommendations include enhancing website content and structure, optimizing chatbot functionality, and adopting models like the Gradual Release of Responsibility (GRR) for peer mentor development. The ultimate goal is to provide clear, accessible, and effective financial wellness resources to students, thereby bridging the gap between research and practice in higher education.