Connecting Students: Improving Engagement and Participation Through Technological Solutions

Student engagement and participation in extracurricular activities are vital for a thriving campus community. However, many clubs at Messiah University face challenges with low engagement due to limited information dissemination and poor communication channels. To address this, the development of goSHARC, which stands for Student Happenings and Recommendations for Clubs, is proposed. It is a comprehensive web platform designed to foster a more connected and engaged student body. goSHARC will provide a centralized hub for all club activities, featuring a user-friendly interface with a calendar of events, discussion boards, and a notification system. This platform will streamline communication, improve information accessibility, and ultimately encourage greater student involvement in campus life. The development process will prioritize user experience and involve gathering detailed requirements through surveys and focus groups with various clubs. This collaborative approach will ensure that goSHARC effectively addresses the specific needs and preferences of the student population. By creating a sustainable technological solution that promotes a thriving and interconnected campus community, goSHARC aims to enhance the overall student experience at Messiah University.