Much of the prior literature on SEM in Canada is descriptive and limited to studies on academic programs, enrolment forecasting, international-student success, marketing and recruitment, organizational development, and SEM planning. This study filled some of the literature gaps by presenting enrolment leader perceptions of the effectiveness of SEM as an educational and managerial framework for managing student enrolments at Canadian institutions, how SEM in Canada differs from US-based practices, and its potential use by Canadian institutions in the future.
In response to the first research question, Canadian enrolment leaders’ perceptions of SEM were chronicled regarding the adoption of SEM in Canada, the use of the SEM nomenclature, and the importance of enrolment planning. Perceptions about several key SEM issues were also explored, including the importance of collaboration, working with faculty, use of data, student success, diverse student populations, and international students.
In response to the second research question, researchers learned about the views of Canadian enrolment leaders on the future of SEM in Canada, with most suggesting that SEM will be needed to address the enrolment challenges of the next decade. A key issue identified was flexibility, including the development of organic approaches to SEM. Most respondents mentioned how important it will be for each institution to define and implements its own SEM pathway.
As further research is contemplated, there is a need to learn about the perspectives of Canadian senior enrolment leaders on the effectiveness of individual SEM practices. Some topics, suggested by this study, include:
- the effectiveness of SEM as an educational and managerial framework for managing student enrolments at Canadian institutions, including aspects of the SEM framework that cannot, or should not, be implemented at Canadian institutions, and the effectiveness of specific SEM components (e.g., branding, targets/student mix, data use, financial aid, student recruitment, student retention, partnership, and collaboration) in the Canadian context; and
- the application of the SEM framework to enhance the connections between administration, faculty, staff, and students at Canadian postsecondary educational institutions.