Student Retention
Understanding the importance of retention is as simply as learning what you need to do to make sure the student knows everything they need to succeed. If a detailed outline is given, the student has in front of them, the steps to succeed in your classroom. Set the tone early, and never forget to remind them of these steps. Retention equals preperation plus guidance.
Kevin,
You make a good point about keeping the class/lab as close to the work world as possible. When you do this you are able to show your students application and relevancy at a much higher level.
Gary
I think that is a great thing to do because the classes i teach are mostly showning them on what they will be doing out in the work field. That is what we are doing is getting the job ready. Also if u keep the class like they will be doing in the work place that will keep the student excited about the class and they will keep coming to yopur class.
Hi Thomas,
This is a great way to help the students see the connection between their last experiences in school and the next big step into employment. Being a student is a job and should be treated as such by the students.
Gary
At the beginning of each new semester I tell students to think of my class as a job. You will only be as successful in your career if you start with a strong foundation. Since I teach a class close to the end of their program I try to install the value of being responsible. If they are unable to make it to class I would appreciate an email or some type of communication to let me know they will not be in. Similar to work if you cannot make it you need to inform your employer. By setting the stage and informing the students of the requirements for the class I have had a significant change in the attitude that students have towards college and their jobs.
Hi Tina,
The easy route is to quit. It is harder to be successful and we need to show out students the benefits of staying in school and putting forth the effort needed to pass the classes. Then they have opportunities, with quitting as we know those opportunities vanish.
Gary
I agree, with retention the student learns how to deal with everything and not be a quitter and take that with him or her when they get out in the work field in their career.
Hi Steven,
Good point about how the instructor needs to set the tone for how the course will operate and the standards that will be used to measure success. By knowing this the students can focus on meeting those standards and as a result make progress toward their career goals.
Gary
