Reasons students drop
Students drop for many reasons. One of the most common is they just dont feel connected or are lost in the world of college life. Helping students overcome this should be our main priority in the early stages. Continuing to treat everyone fairly and encouraging them to do and try their best is all we can ask for.
I also think that we as instructor's need to let students know that these skills we are giving them and all the 'work' we palce on them are skills they will take with them to the work palce. That we do not give homework and give exams to be mean, but to test them on the knowledge and skills that will benefit them. We have to get across what is in it for them.
I agree as a an instructor in the cosmetolgy dept. You have to make your students understand the rules and regulations in te begining of the course. By letting them know how important attendance is in everyday life on whatever path that they may choose. As an instructor it is also important to make learning more interesting for the students and a fun atmosphere. Showing that you care about their career and that you would do anything it takes to help them be a success. This will decrease alot of drops in the classroom.
Audrey,
It is unfortunate...sounds like some more realistic expectations in admissions and orientation might be helpful. Do you use current students to help set these expectations?
Susan Backofen
I agree that students should be encouraged. However, a lot of students are just lazy. Our institution offers one program, a creative program. Students enroll because they like music and they think it is going to be an easy program. When they realize there is a lot of work to be done, they quit. It is very unfortunate.
What ever reason a student gives for thinking about dropping... the Faculty or staff member must listen, understand the students concerns and help them work through the situation or find someone that can help. Time is the most important thing.
Charese--
You make an important point here in that students who do or contemplate dropping a course don't understand the ramification it can have on their educational and career goals. I think this is very important for us to remember and to assist the students, as you point out, in putting all the puzzle pieces together.
Susan
First and foremost, I believe that most students whom have dropped a course, are preparing to drop a course, or have been dropped from a course lack a sense of communication and understanding of the program they are enrolled in and how they can be successful in it. As an instructor, it is imperative that we diligently build a professional relationship with each student possible, that promotes understanding and interest in their personal and professional goals. When a student knows that their instructor is just as interested, if not more-so in their education and progression in the program, they are more willing to try and make whatever current restraints they have work for them. "Caring is sharing"!!!!!! (Experience, personal success of hurdles that you have overcome, and determination help students to understand that they are not alone in this process and that we are here for the sole purpose of helping them reach their goals)
WE get a lot of Vet's just coming back from war and to explain that they will make a difference with an education is very important. Some times these Vet's have problems fitting back into public life.
It is all about encouragement! Encouraging a student to complete an assignment, homework and even a class goes a long way.
