Our D.O.E. recently introduced Perfect Attendance Awards, Department Chair Awards and Student Awards, in addition to our Dean's & President's Award. These have assisted in improving retention, and allowed us to recognize students who go above and beyond. The students enjoy being able to vote for a Faculty Member of the Term. It makes them feel involved and connected with the campus community. We also aim to have one major industry or community project each term, which students can participate in. We don't currently have a mentoring program, but this could be implemented to increase retention and student to student support.
I have seen the campus where I teach observe holidays, have themes, and encourage students to bring a friend to class day. these are all great methods to promote the school and increase marketing efforts. I would also encourage schools to survey their students for ideas.
Jimmy,
If these are in place great. If not, they are good suggestions.
Ron Hansen, Ed. D.
I believe at times some fun and moral boosting is good for our heart, soul and motivation. Have best improved Student, pot luck, Celebrate birthday's, Special holidays!
Dawn,
Any favorites amongst your list? Any that work better than others?
Ron Hansen, Ed. D.
John,
These are all great examples/ Thank you for your post.
Ron Hansen, Ed. D.
You're totally right, we as students should develop a list of activities associated with the current curriculum that the students can complete together. That way the students' will be able to work together and get to know each other.
Our school provides a number of activities that involve the students from having a storyboard about certain disease processes that compete with other departments within the school to decorating a door for Christmas. We have Halloween parties and opportunites to serve the community through the year. These provide a way for students to unify and take pride in their school and promote commraderie with their fellow students.
Involvement in state and national association meetings.
Freshman/Sophomore buddies
Study groups
Lab activities
Open lab/study "hall"
Community event involvement
Visits to out patient day programs
Shanika,
Do you have any statistics indicating the improvement to retention?
Ron Hansen, Ed. D.
Vivian,
The holidays might be a logistical and fiscal challenge. What do you see as the benefit to students?
Ron Hansen, Ed. D.
Marisela,
And these are well received by the students?
Ron Hansen, Ed. D.
My college has started a cultural appreciation month, a Mr.and Mrs. Concorde competition, and student fun day, etc. Building school pride increased student retention.
Cultural Diversity Awareness Event
Black History Event
Celebrate Nurses' Week
There are multiple things that I believe will increase student retention and increase student morale. First, I believe that all national holidays should be observed by all faculty and students. I also believe that students should all be required to watch awards ceremonies. I feel that seeing how one's peers have excelled, would motivate other students to do the same. Also, I feel that all students that are on the borderline of failing a course should have to meet with a school mentor of some sort.
It is also fun for staff and faculty to supply the snacks. We have done everything from ice cream to bagles. We give all classes a break at the same time and staff serves them. A bit crowded but a great way to interact.
I agree. These things allow students to be interactive, have a little fun and express themselves in ways that the classroom doesnt typically allow.
Juliana,
Making that connection is so vital. Thank you for your post.
Ron Hansen, Ed. D.
I agree! What better way to motivate than through open recognition. Humans are quite competitive and soon you will have everyone chasing those coveted awards.
i agree, involving the holidays and recognizing students for perfect attendance and honor role is agreat way to get students to stay involved in school.
