Nudging Students Toward Resilient Behaviors

What is a nudge? A nudge is “any small feature of the environment that attracts people’s attention and alters their behavior but does so in a way that doesn’t compel.”

While many institutions recognize the value of introducing resilience and coping skills before students arrive on campus, it becomes increasingly difficult for students to prioritize resilient behaviors as assignments, work, social life, and more takes over.

Progressive colleges and universities use nudges throughout the semester to encourage students’ resilience when faced with the demanding realities of student life. Nudges can help students keep healthy coping and resilience skills top of mind throughout the academic year, and make this behavior the default when students encounter challenges.

EAB recommends institutions deploy strategic nudges throughout the semester to encourage students to prioritize resilience and well being to enhance their success. This paper outlines three recommendations for using nudges to maintain student mindshare around resilience and well being.