Calvin introduces students to new software for registration

Photo+by+Bernard+Boadu

Photo by Bernard Boadu

This fall term will usher in the use of a new registration system for Calvin students. The Student Planning system, a service of the Ellucian Company, replaces the registration system most students are familiar with. According to Raymond Gant, Registration Coordinator, the new registration system is intended “to provide advisors and students with more tools at their disposal in an effort to enhance the advising and registration experience.”

Further reasons for the switch include the gradual phasing out of the former software by Ellucian, as well as newly available funding that allowed the purchase of an updated system. The team involved in the transition included the registrar, advising, IT, and data analytics staff.

Student Planning integrates the course catalog, student registration, grades, and other academic features alongside financial information. While currently the financial aspect is limited to tax information, the academic portion is thoroughly developed.

New tools included with the software upgrade include the ability to pick courses directly from their Academic Evaluation Reports (AER) and create four year plans, helping to speed the registration process. Additionally, advisors will have access to student accounts, allowing for simple information sharing and planning.

Overall, student response appears to be mixed, with some students finding the new system to be difficult to navigate.

“I find it very frustrating,” Calvin senior Rachel Conover says. “I can’t even find my registration time.” Others, however, find this to be an improvement.

“While I struggle a little bit to understand [Student Planning], I think it will be beneficial for new students who can now start to adjust to the new system,” says Jessi Vos, a senior.

According to Noah Madrid, a sophomore, “the new graphical interface makes registration more accessible, whereas the old system made it difficult to visualize what your schedule would look like in the end.”

Those students who are currently having difficulties with Student Planning are advised to reach out to an Academic Help Ambassador or the advising office, according to Mr. Gant, who also added that feedback is welcome from students as the entire campus becomes familiar with the new format.