Finally...
At our school, retention is a huge issue at all times. This first section should be read by every employee, not just the teachers...
Hi Debra,
It is only fair that the students be given all of the information, requirements and expectations of their field in relation to their own backgrounds. This then shows them what they can or cannot do in relation to next steps. Thanks for bringing up this important area of needed information.
Gary
In regards to courses that eventually require certification or licensure, I feel it is a good idea to let students know the requirements. Often a student can enroll in a college but will not be allowed to get certified due to past derogatory arrest history. I feel it is important that students are aware of disqualifying offenses up front. Thereby confusion will be avoided and students that are not eligible for certification, know it right away. Of course they are advised of the appeal process as well should they desire to continue their education and request excemption from the state board.
Hi Laura,
Do your online students get settled into the course and understand your polices like your on site students or do you have to use other measures to get them on the same page with you?
Gary
In the residual setting I always review the class policies and/or procedures the first day of class, and then I have the students sign a confirmation that states they understand the policies and/or procedures for the course. This way when the student says they were not aware of the policies, I show them their signed confirmation.
In the online environment, I email the students to remind them about the policies and request an email back from the students confirming their understanding of the policies.
Laura
Hi Victoria,
Good point about how individuals get enrolled in career programs. They need to have career counseling that will help them select career training that is based upon realistic, informed and meaningful decisions.
Gary
Retention is an issue that should also be considered when accepting students into a program. Schools who accept everyone who can pay are setting themselves up to deal with retention issues. When you hire every person that applies for a job, you don't always end up with the best employees, that's why you interview and be selective. It does not seem fair to the students to take their money when it is very obvious that they will not succeed, for whatever reason.
I agree with your statement completely, but in many cases the individuals that are providing the misinformation are unaware. I think it is the responsibility of the school to make policies and procedures as clear as possible, but at the same time everyone should take it upon themselves to make sure these policies are reviewed from time to time to make sure they are accurate in the information that is given out
I wholeheartedly agree! You cannot assume anything.
I always go over the class policies and procedures, and preface it with, I realize you can read this, but, I want to make sure you have all heard it and understand, since these will be the polices and procedures followed for this class.
To often I have heard, well in such and such a class we did....., by going over the polices and procedures for my class, then my response is, well that is not the policy or procedure for this class and we reviewed them as well as the fact that they are printed on your syllabus.
I also note that extenuating circumstances do happen, and we can review them on a case by case basis, however, planned vactions, family events etc, do not constitue extenuaing.
Feedback or other methods are appreciated.
Hi Victor,
Yes, those external pressures really do impact the learning and even retention of students. Consideration of these influences and pressures will help to keep the students in school and moving toward their career goals.
Gary
I find that outside issues (job, family etc.) have a great impact on student sucess. It is more than just numbers.
Hi Graham,
This is why that as a part of their educational program students need to learn how to listen and meet deadlines or follow polices. If they learn this then they are going to have more success when they enter the work place.
Gary
Hi Doug,
Right you are. Retention really is everyone's responsibility because it takes everyone associated with the college to keep students engaged and returning each day.
Gary
In the begining of class policies and procedures should be mentioned so there is no conflict in miscommunication.
It is the same for our school.
the more students we retain the better our numbers are
I often encounter students saying "I was told.....this........." in the beginning. If all employees are not aware of policies and procedures, miscommunication can often become a factor in retention.
