retention
I think that a harder entry exam would cut down on drops. Am i wrong to think that way, If we make sure students are more capable to do the work we will have a higher retention rate? I say this because I think the entry tests that are given are way to easy.
I had one student tell me she thought it was difficult to get into our school because of the entrance exam and essay. Once she was in school for a year, she stated she felt everyone got accepted and that was frustrating to her. This is a good example of how the student expectations should match reality.
Is that good or bad? What outcomes do you get?
we are actually expected to tutor them so that they may be successful
This is a familiar complaint. It's unfortunate that not every high school graduate is properly prepared for classes at the next level.
Does your school document these shortcomings? Could they be shared with the sending school district?
I feel somewhat the same Steven. Often It seems like a lot of students that come through this school dont have some of the basic skills required for a secondary education. this makes it tougher on retention if students find themselves unable to move along with thier education. I have seen quite a few student drop that this very thing could have been a factor, or at least one of them.
Entrance standards present a tough challenge. Too high and you can't fill the classes; too low and it's tough to keep everyone moving toward the desired outcomes.
How often does your institution review the minimum acceptable score? Do you do any studies that look at the entry exam scores of successful graduates and/or those who are dropped for lack of academic progress? That information might lead to a reasoned conclusion about the proper performance on the entry exam.
Does your institution offer tutoring services? Are you available after class to meet with struggling students? How about peer mentors? They can be a powerful resource and may provide a different approach to problem solving.
The problem I'm haveing is: That if they pass the ability to benifit test, and have a hard time with it, I am not able to teach a slow student in the six weeks advanced modual i teach. which leaves them in the dust. thus causing academic erosion and academic stagnation stress.
I could not agree with you more. I feel that what we are missing is the value of the product. We will improve on the value of the final product if we set a bar on the level of students that we accept. The Hospitality industry would not benefit from a culinary school that accepts everyone and then passes all of those same students. I also believe that a waiting list for entrance into a program is a GOOD thing. This show that there is value and integrity at the intstitution.
I would much rather wait in line at a Great restaurant than have my choice of any seat at a mediocre restaurant.
