student retention strategies
1.Explain how classroom lessons apply to everyday life. Show each lesson’s relevance / application.
2.Let students know they are missed when they don’t come.
3.Help your students identify a specific goal for attending your class. 4.Research shows that adult students with a clear goal are more likely to persist than those without.
5. Students need to “see†their progress. It must be measurable to them: portfolios, pre/post tests, test scores, written evaluations…
6. Employ a variety of instructional methods to reach all students. Research shows that group work and discussion generates energy and enthusiasm leading to great participation. Do class projects!
7. Build self-efficacy/confidence by: recognizing their progress, celebrating their achievements, and presenting models of success.
James,
I support your position that the onus has to be and should remain on the student in relation to personal discipline and responsibility. I think we instructors should do all we can to encourage student learning by being well prepared, offer instructional variety and support when needed. I tell my students that I am a former student just like they are but I worked hard, graduated, and got extensive field experience and these are the reasons I have the "big desk" meaning I am the teacher. It is up to them to be successful and create a future for themselves.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
It is my perception that the onus for student engagement and therefore student success has shifted from the student to the instructor. And while I agree that learning can be a much more enjoyable and enhanced learning experience with a dynamic and prepared instructor it is still the responsibility of the student to show up on time and be prepared to learn. I instruct in the military environment where participation and preparedness is not the issue I perceive other institutions seem to have.
Anthony,
Great list. Thank you for sharing it with us. I know this list will be valuable to other instructors that are looking for ways to increase their retention rate and keep their students engaged.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
