I would do things that would make the students feel they made the right call
Debora,
You are a great example for your students since you have been where many of them are. You came back to school as a older student and have been successful to the point that now you are an instructor. You do understand them and the challenges they face so you can be a role model for them when they face challenges that might lead them to leaving school.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I like these ideas to help the students
I truly agree. I myself was a student and one of things i realized being in the classroom at the age of 42, was that I need a variety of things to help me retain and stay focused. The one thing that was a key to my success was that I had instructors that cared about me personally and my success. Having them believe in me helped me believe in myself.
I agree, if a student can not see the value, their interest level drops. Make everything about the field they are studying.
Mary,
Your last sentence is so important for students to realize. If they feel valued they will be more open to sharing their ideas and giving input. This builds their confidence and helps them to grow in their field and as communicators.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I have found that most students enjoy participating in class discussions. This allows students the opportunity to share their stories as it relates to the course. The critical success factor is acknowledging their input was valuable.
Reaffirmation of some of the important foundation of higher education which becomes the secret to a successful retention program
Gerardo,
This is important to have because this way you can provide support and encouragement so their outside life challenges don't derail their career goals and they drop out of school.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Ron,
Good way to keep the flow of the course moving forward and providing opportunities for the students to interact with each other and share their knowledge with each other.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Keeping up with the student in and out of class is important. This will allow you to understand the students and how to assist them, when they are not attending class.
I attempt to limit my talking in the class and have them do group projects. In addition, I clearify any questions they may have from their reading.
Cenek,
Good example and it is so true. They need to see value in what is being taught and when they do they will complete their program.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I agree. If I had only one thing to improve on a campus to insure an increase in retention in that classroom - it would be through the increase of active learning in individual classes.
Retention is a byproduct of our education quality. It can be compared to a show or a movie. If the show is good, people will buy tickets, show up for the show and stay till the end.
Patricia,
I use both of these strategies to help "sell" my course content. Guest speakers and field trips ramp up the students and help to get them excited about what they are learning and how they are going to be able to use this new information.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Having quest speakers and field trips are great ways to keep students engaged. I lile to have fun with learning and this is another way to keep the students engaged in learning.
Patricia,
As you have experienced students really perk up when you share a story, example or experience with them to reinforce the content that has just been shared. These stories increase the relevance factor for the students and helps them to see the value of the course content.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Leah,
Helping your adult students to know you understand them and the challenges they are facing goes a long way in helping them to stay in school. If they know you care and are there to support them they will be more engaged and strive for more success.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Layovone,
So true. The higher the satisfaction the greater the involvement by students. We need to keep our finger on the pulse of the class so we know how to maintain a close connection with our students.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
