Assessing the effectiveness of academic coaching interventions for student success in higher education : a systematic review

Abstract

Every student has the potential to change the world by making a significant contribution to society. Experiences in higher education significantly shape the development of this potential, for better or worse, leading to interventions to support student success. Among such interventions, academic coaching has been widely used; however, how do we know that it is effective? In this systematic literature review, we describe the characteristics of effective academic coaching interventions, including the format of coaching (individual or group coaching), coaching mode (in-person or distance via technology), coaching topics, coach background, duration, frequency. Focusing on peer-reviewed English journals between 2010 and May 2023, the study found 643 articles, 25 of which met the inclusion criteria following rigorous screening and consensus-reaching processes. Based on the findings, effective coaching interventions span at least 12 hours over 4 weeks, are preferably in-person, and are best facilitated by professional coaches.