Academic and social integration together with timely intervention can increase retention. Professors and staff must recognize signals that could indicate students are dealing with situations affecting their learning process and therefore graduation rates,
("The graduation ceremony should be fun and inspiring event for graduates. They worked hard to reach this point.")
I've learned that instructors/faculty are important in the retention experience. Instructors who are positive, and engaging, and show their commitment contribute to retention at a school. Students engaged in social and academic activities are more likely to commit themselves to completing their program. I think creating more activities for students to interact with each other will be vital to retention.
Comment on Donna Duncan's post: Its also important for them to know their boundaries as well however.
Early and frequent intervention is essential to improving retention among struggling students. Bonding with classmates as they face their fears together, and succeed, will create lasting bonds and increase their willingness to persist onward, together. Our Registrars make every effort to keep cohorts and study groups together, class by class, whenever it is possible for this very reason. Inviting students to assist in the planning of their graduation ceremony is a great integration tool as well. Announcing graduation in local publications, and even the hometowns papers of those who have relocated or commute for school, can instill additional pride and confidence in their achievements.
It is important to support students to keep them pursuing their studies.
Aprendimos sobre la Importancia de la Integración Académica y Social, de igual forma que el estilo de enseñanza de un instructor afecta la retención y debemos aprender a interpretar las necesidades de los estudiantes.
Considero que uno de los aspectos que fomentan la retención son las reuniones con los estudiantes por que hay una interacción con el profesor y estudiante y esto abre un vínculo entre los estudiantes otro factor crucial es la importancia de ser accesibles y abiertos a la interacción social con los estudiantes.
My standard refrain to my instructors is that retention begins and ends in the classroom. The teacher and the associated academic culture is the single most powerful force in helping retain students.
I always said that instructors are the experts in their field, and students understanding this, helps with retention. Instructors and students must have a relationship that encourages questions and effective communication. It is also important that instructors be trained on how to work with a diverse student population.
School involvement promotes and engages students. They will feel more connected to the school, students and the teachers. With this might come increased enrollments as well as positive publicity for the school.
It is important to ensure there is a wide array of activities to allow all students to connect to the school on an academic and social level. It also taught me that an instructors teaching style can definitely affect the outcome of student retention.
Involving everyone in the school to maintain retention of the student is important. Starting at the front desk and including each and every student. Keeping a more watchful eye out while teaching for students who seem discouraged, withdrawn, or having a hard day. Letting them know I will do anything to help or just listen if they need it.
I have learned that students become more engaged when staff becomes more involved, and this will reduce retention.
The classroom environment is important to creating student success.
Implementing Successful Student Retention Strategies: School Involvement Affects Retention
Student involvement in school activities and organizations plays a crucial role in retention. Engaging students in campus life outside the classroom fosters a sense of belonging, enhances their overall college experience, and increases their likelihood of persisting to graduation. Here’s how school involvement can significantly impact student retention:
Creating a Sense of Belonging
Students who actively participate in clubs, organizations, and extracurricular activities develop a stronger connection to the campus community. This sense of belonging helps students feel more invested in their institution, increasing their commitment to stay and succeed.
Developing Social Connections
Involvement in school activities encourages students to form meaningful relationships with peers, faculty, and staff. These social connections provide emotional and academic support, reducing feelings of isolation and helping students cope with the stresses of college life.
Building Leadership and Teamwork Skills
Through participation in student organizations, leadership roles, or group projects, students enhance essential skills such as leadership, communication, and teamwork. These skills not only enrich their personal development but also contribute to academic success, fostering a sense of achievement and belonging.
Enhancing Academic Success
Research shows that students involved in campus activities are more likely to perform well academically. School involvement encourages better time management, stronger study habits, and increased motivation to succeed in both academic and extracurricular pursuits, leading to higher retention rates.
Boosting Engagement and Motivation
Involvement in campus life helps students feel more connected and engaged with their institution, increasing their overall satisfaction with the college experience. When students are motivated by their active participation in campus life, they are more likely to stay engaged academically and persist through challenges.
Providing Opportunities for Personal Growth
Participation in extracurricular activities offers students opportunities for personal growth and exploration. By discovering new interests and passions, students are more likely to find purpose and motivation in their academic and career goals, reinforcing their commitment to staying enrolled.
Fostering a Positive Campus Culture
A vibrant campus life with active student participation fosters a positive, inclusive campus culture. When students feel that their voices are heard and their contributions valued, they are more likely to feel connected to the institution and stay committed to their educational journey.
Promoting Mental Health and Well-Being
Engaging in school activities can positively affect students’ mental health by providing a healthy outlet for stress and fostering a support network. A sense of community and well-being increases students' overall satisfaction with their college experience and contributes to retention.
By encouraging school involvement, institutions can create a more vibrant and supportive campus environment where students thrive both academically and personally. This involvement leads to stronger student engagement, satisfaction, and ultimately higher retention rates.
Enthusiasm from the school staff and faculty really impacts the students' level of enthusiasm for completing their degree.
This module provided perspective into the importance of connection and social involvement. Students need to feel connected to instructors and each other. The more students connect the higher the probability of persistence.
