Student retention
This subject matter is probably the most important to the students success. I f the student is not in class it is impossible for the to learn. We are in the business of training cooks, but we can not train the student properly if they are not retained.
Susanne,
This is the model I use. I have Professional Points that are earned throughout the course. They are earned by being in class on time, completing assignments and handing them on time, as well as participating in class discussions and activities. They do work and for the most part I have no problem with tardiness or absenteeism.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Hi Kathy,
Yes, I am often amazed that I do have some students each term that have challenges coming to class or attending class for the entire classroom time period. It is challenging and I have found the best solution is to allocate more points to in-class participation and activities. It is amazing how adding more points to class participation can motivate a student to attend class!
Thoughts?
Susanne
Sultana,
You have a good list of examples of how to get students engaged in the course and help them stay focused throughout the duration of the classes. This is what learning should be about for them.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
student retention is the second step after enrollment. Instructors plays a important roll in retention process. Positive reinforcement, teaching practical applications, showing empathy, cooperation can help retaining students.
Kathy,
It makes me sad when I have students like those you mention. No matter what you do they don't come to class or are late and do not do the work. I don't know why they enroll in such programs if they do not intend to do the work. I try my best to get them involved in the learning process but in the end it is their future and they have decided that they are not going to put forth the effort needed to be successful.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I agree. It seems to be an ongoing issue with retention. I am always coming up with new ways to keep the students wanting to come to class. I do feel that no matter how creative i get, there are still those students that continuously miss class material, which makes it very difficult for them to stay up to date with material because they missed so much material.
Ted,
Good point. The students have chosen to enroll in your program so they can receive specific content and skill development. I am always amazed at how many students don't come to class and then can't figure out why they didn't pass or don't have the needed competencies. Learning is hard work and requires self discipline and we need to help our students see how they need to expend both in order to be successful.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
