I agree.  I believe it is the little things that we do each and every day that makes the difference.  It's these little things that allow all of us to demonstrate that we care about our students.  The converse is not doing the little things....this is where retention becomes an issue because it is generally not one thing that sets in moment a student decision to leave.  It's cumulative.  Think about each of us when dealing with a vendor.  It is generally not one thing in isolation that upsets you, it's the fact that there is an ongoing trend of events where you finally just say I've had enough.

There are many more strategies we, as instructors can use on a daily basis to enhance student retention. I have found that getting to know your students is a key factor. Instructors must spend some time to learn about student's hobbies and interests inside and outside of class. We also have to spend time to listen to them making note of any problems or issues they may have which may affect their attendance. If I do learn of an issue, I will immediately suggest that they visit Student Services for a resolution. I have personally taken students to Student services myself if they are apprehensive about going alone. The feedback I receive from the students after the fact is usually positive and the students feel that the instructor really cares. What a great way to enhance retention!

 

Walt and James nice insight to student retention.  How do you handle students who never respond to your emails, calls or inquires? Contacting the student advisor sometimes gets results, but at times not even they are successful.