Lastly and also as part of the First-Year Sequence, University of Phoenix is changing its approach to remediation and instituting a program of integrative learning, which will provide just-in-time skills on a gradual basis. This innovative approach will make learning opportunities available to students throughout their course of study, not just at the beginning and not in an all-in-one, sink-or-swim course. “We are changing remedial education to work for all students when they need it and without sacrificing their appropriate academic progression,” said Pepicello.

Many colleges are also offering block scheduling to help cut students’ energy costs. Brevard Community College (Florida) now operates on a four-day work week, which has had mixed reviews. Some students are happy to have a day off, while others find it difficult because the longer classes mean less time to handle daily responsibilities, college officials said. J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College (Virginia)also uses a form of block scheduling to cut the cost of commuting for students. Under its Fuel Smart Fridays program, students come to campus once a week and can still earn a full load of credits. The program operates on a 16-week semester.