Retention
Retention of a student is complicated, but getting them to class in time eventho they are interested in the subject matter is extremely hard. Especially when they have to work to support themselves, study the material and family situations.
The first day of class seems to be an attendance problem, some students see it as a free day beliveing little will be acomplished anyway. Recently I have been touching base with the class that is on its way the Friday before they are due to attend my class .I know it is not possible for some to do this due to students arriving from multiple classes.Being able to stress the importance of what we need to get done on the first day and how far behind they will be seems to help first day attendance.In a nutshell the more communication the better.
Remember, we cannot be miracle workers. I have had many students that just cannot get to class on time, some with good reasons and some without. All I have found that we can do is try to communicate with them as much as they will allow us to, so that we can suggest alternatives or support personel that can help them.
