There are so many things to think about when looking at retention. For one thing, it starts with the students expectations when they enroll. Why they are enrolling and the course of action they are planning on taking to succeed. You then have to look inside the classroom and make sure they feel like they are valued, and are engaged in the class, and are getting what they thought they would out of the course. You also have to consider whether they have outside issues, and make sure they know you care and want them to succeed. If they know this, they are more likely to approach you with problems that might be avoided, or worked out, before they just drop the course. I would say trust, communication, and the value (perceived by the student) of education are all keys to retention.
In addition to many of the fine ideas mentioned here already, I think the a great impact on student retention is to set the stage day one of the instructor expectations, the ways to meet those expectations and ask about the students' expectations of the class. Once established, consistently reiterate what has been achieved toward the class goals and what challenges remain with all the students and personally meet with the students to discuss each students progress.
Respect for the student is my first rule. An example would be, learning names within a very short timeframe. Making eye contact and a simple "hello" is helpful. Listening to them instead of wanting to be "listened to" may help keep them aboard. Learning their needs while balancing empathy and teaching methods all play a role. Truthfully, they are the reason we are employed. Most of them want to be instructed. We should treat them with good human nature, as we want to be treated.
Instructors need to engage the students. This can be different from class to class. Lectures that involve the students and involve real world experiences of the instructor and student are important.
If the instructor shows value in the course material and why the individual student would benefit from learning it, retention is more likely. Also, the instructor needs to acknowledge each class member and show he/she recogninzes their value as a person, not just a body filling a seat.
Hi Rosie,
All good examples of student support that facilitates student retention. What are some examples you have experienced as a result of these efforts?
Gary
Instructors are directly responsible for retention of their students in the classroom. If the instructor can make sure that the student feels important, validated in the classroom, part of the group, and receives positive feedback, the student is more apt to stay in school. The extra touch of calling the student or sending an email when absent is another element that contributes to retention. Many students appreciate instructors who care enough to make contact when they miss class. All of these points add up to effective outreach and retention!
