Improving retention
Many students are adult learners, married with families, and who have after school jobs. These issues must be addressed with improving retention.
My response to an earlier form
(Not being ashamed to show compassion and caring speaks volume to the student.
if you do that as well as being a good listener without being judgmental. This normally makes a world of difference in the way the student feels, even if you are unable to help)
Adult learners have special problems, most show up before they are ready. I was an adult learner with a wife and two children in a full-time job. I must tell you I was not ready when I started, the truth is if I waited until I was ready I still would not have attended any school.
It is my belief adult learners need to be assisted is much as possible. They need to see that you are concerned about them and their education. And they need to ask themselves how bad do I want it.
Mr. Abercrombie you are so correct. I was an adult learner myself, and it is so true that if we wait until we are ready we would have never attended school.
Times were rough at times but cutting back and watching every dime did help.
I know it is hard to tell a student that but we discuss some survival tips in orientation. It is a group discussion.
You've hit the nail on the head - adult learners have special problems. And this can't be stated enough. It's very hard to make the time for school and the commitment it requires when juggling work and/or childcare. Then, just as a student gets into the challenging part of the curriculum, something changes: a boss demands longer work hours with no consideration for school schedules; childcare arrangements fall through; a family member falls ill, cars break down - adult responsibilities can make continuing in school impossible. Even if the student can resolve the issue and continue to attend, the stress of conflicting demands interferes with learning, and unless the payoff - the promise of a rewarding career - is emphasized, the student may decide that school is one complication too many. And withdraw.
Good summary of the challenge, Nyssa. All this means that the staff and faculty have to be keenly aware of what is going on and agile in providing appropriate support.
i agree, but what is most important to remember is that if they are in your school in your class they want to make a change in their life for the better and often they must be reminded of why theyre are here.
where theres a will theres a way. If there is accesible staffing then it souldnt be an issue
Hosting a family night at school is a great way to get the family involve in the student educational success. During family night, dedicate 20 minutes to explain the important of family support to help the student study, complete homework, etc.
Shana, how do you handle child care during a family night? Are the kids expected to sit through "boring" presentations for the adult family members?
Many students just need someone to encourage them and let them know what they are doing is worth it.
Roger, who is responsible for this encouragement? Is it important to measure it?
