Retention
This course illustrated some very important points for student retention. Instructors need to care about all aspects of the student's life. They also need to be able to understand students have other issues going on outside of school. Students need to understand that school is a responsiblity, but they also need to feel liked, respected and understood by the faculty and staff.
I agee whole heartedly, I make a concerted effort to try and get to know every one that comes through the door. Thats the personal touch I think they need to feel liked. If they come to me with problems, I don't send them away if doesn't
involve class, lending an ear once in a while whether it's a school issue or personal problem can go a long way.
I always conduct "get to know you" sessions and ice-breakers with students. Getting to know everyone in the classroom beyond the normal classwork provides a "team" sense. I believe this prepares them to be better prepared for most work settings that are teamwork driven.
One "trick" I use to get and keep the student interested is to start and end the class with something fun, clever, or interesting to draw their attention to the subject matter. Also at the end of the class, I will mention what we will be discussing the next class such as the someone being able to check you out on the internet. This will create curiosity and encourage the student to return for the next class to find out what they, themselves can find out in the internet.
