One of the ways I have learned effective retention strategies is from mentors in my field. Largely, I have met many in my field who have taught a class or two and have had some motivating ideas on how to engage students in the classroom. Of course, research will always produce some ideas and courses such as ED102 will have some great applications as well!
Regards,
Amber Cochran
They can do continuing education to learn about it and keep up with the latest knowledge regarding retention strategies. Also by working with or studying teachers that have a high retention record.
Steven,
Great list of ways to bring instructional improvement into play. All of these items will increase student engagement and retention. Thanks for sharing them.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
In order to become aware of effective retention strategies, instructors need to research the topic by taking courses like this one and ask other instructors what has worked in the classroom. If a coworker of mine was doing something that was successful in increasing retention, I would incorporate it into my classroom.
Hi Gary,
Sorry I missed your question. I think that there are several ways to keep up with ways to retain your students.
1. Of course, be the best instructor that you can be, and be professional.
2. Always be positive.
3. Complete courses like this one.
4. Have your course observed by a peer.
5. Try to help students one-on-one as needed when you see that they are having a tough time.
These are a few of what I think are key to helping with student retension.
Regards, Steven
Robert,
I like this approach as well. It is important to help students see how they can and will learn in a cooperative environment if they are willing to participate and share.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
I try to use the team method. I let the students know that we all (instructor and students) are part of a team trying to achieve a common objective. This way they become active participants in the same way they will work in interactions in the job environment.
Instructors can become aware of effective retention strategies by participating in training and sharing ideas. I personally like to try new strategies out. I feel you can learn alot thru trail and error. The most effective strategies I've used is getting to know my students on a personal level and what drives them to success.
Richard,
We need to always be "reading" our students so we can provide support to them as needed. By knowing they are having some challenges in their lives we can help them to stay focused on their course work and continue moving toward their career goals.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
Our executive chef, always reminds us several times per week of any at risk students. We then offer her our plan of action. Most often we have already begun, but is helpful to have her assist. Through communication, and nonverbal clues an instructor can often see the signs of a struggling student, whether it is class related or personal hardships.
By being a good instructor. This is where their focus should be. If they are an engaging instructor they won;t have to worry about retention.
By studying different techniques and strategies on effective retention strategies you will be better able to facilitate your classroom environment.
Donald,
I agree about the need to give and earn respect. Adult learners will give respect if merited. They appreciate being able to use their life experiences in relation to the course content. Thanks for these good observations.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
I think that if you treat adult learners as adults you have taken a big step toward showing respect for the student. I tell my students that I respect them the first day I see them in class. I don’t give away respect, but they earned my respect for taking the steps to be where they are now. I remind them that for every student sitting in a chair there are many more out there who are not here because they did not want to make the commitment or sacrifices that were necessary.
We must be very close to the student and keep the student interested in the class.
The first days are very important because we can identify students who need more attention from us and provide tutoring those who need it.
Getting to know your students names and a few things about them. Positive attitude and encouragement daily. Letting them be a part of the process as a group.
To talk about their students to other instructors on how they can help them and by the way they learn. also they can encourage them and make it to wear the students want to be in there class.
Lev,
Good strategies for professional development and growth as an educator.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
They can do that by taking special training courses like the one I am taking now. They can also talk to their collegues and discuss what is new in their field. Also attending conferences and seminars on that topics helps.
David,
This is so important in working with high risk learners. This way if they are willing to put forth the effort they know they will have support available to help them be successful.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
