First Week and Late Enrollments | Origin: RT102
This is a general discussion forum for the following learning topic:
Orientation and First Week Activities to Increase Retention --> First Week and Late Enrollments
Post what you've learned about this topic and how you intend to apply it. Feel free to post questions and comments too.
Ending class early can potentially cause the institution to lose credibility.
The first week impressions are very important and impactful on the student and their perception of the school.
I liked the idea of the first week or two being the most critical in reinforcing a student's decision to attend (and keep attending) and they don't feel truly comfortable in school, until after the first week. I didn't think about their family and friends asking them when they come home how it went, and if the day's activities hadn't been positive, it will begin to plant seeds of doubt.
I love the practical idea of having some sort of event the first week or two with FOOD, and having Admissions assist, as this as a time for them to ask for referrals!
I also love the idea for late enrollments to assign 'buddies' (fellow classmates or utilize existing students as 'coaches') to help acclimate the new student and making them more comfortable.
I hadn't thought about having potential employers come in this early; however, it makes a lot of sense to peek their interest early and keep them excited about completing the program successfully.
Lastly, I really liked the idea of implementing calls from Admissions, as just another way of performing some potential triage if necessary, and how the "How's it going?" will provide a chance to identify and resolve any issues early in the game, as well as allowing the student to feel as though Admissions cares about them and their success as well. Also, another great time to ask for referrals!!!
The first week of class, including orientation, is such a pivotal time in a new student's journey to complete a program. During orientation we can create a bond with them and become a resource to help them decide not to give up. If they feel comfortable, informed, welcomed and confident in the school they will not give up. We must create a fun, yet serious or professional atmosphere they can thrive in. I plan on implementing more staff involvement in the orientation, and I plan on working toward a more interactive orientation.
From this module, I learned that the first week of class is one of the most critical times for student retention. Small details like being visible, welcoming, and organized can strongly influence whether students feel confident in their decision to stay. Building early bonds, reinforcing expectations, and watching for signs of disengagement all help prevent dropouts before they start.
I plan to apply this by continuing to create a positive first-week experience for my TRDS100 students by personally greeting them, checking in early on attendance and progress, and building connections that make them feel supported and valued from day one.
A support board (in a digital format) is an interesting approach. Enhancing assimilation during the first week helps students build confidence and a sense of belonging, while acclimating late enrollees ensures that everyone has an equal opportunity to succeed.
We have utilized food events during the students first week of school, however, we don't do it each month. I think we will start doing this. I like the idea of a Support Board. We currently have a wall called the "Wall of Why", students post a picture on the wall of their Why.
Retention is key over the first week. Students will feel uneasy and miss home potentially. The first week needs tote a good experience. Classmate bonding. events etc
If we built a strong orientation then the students will already be a little familiar with each other and the instructor. Build on that foundation by providing continued interaction. If we didn't have time to build in a student introduction component to orientation, the first day is an excellent time to start building the connection for the student in the first week.
Have the student be involved getting to know classmates and planning activities hands on. A class picture can make them feel like they belong
The first week—wherein you set expectations and build the community is vital for success. Consistency and structure are key. Your colleagues are a great resource. Collaborating with admissions staff, who already have a relationship with the student, can be very effective.
It does take a village to have an effective outcome. Its an amazing resource when we all can come together to assist the being in a positve outcome.
Providing support throughout a student's journey is essential to keeping them performing well in their studies, social interactions, and overall well-being.
I like the village concept when it comes to taking care of the students. The student who is a late enrollment must get started very quickly and leave nothing undone to get them on track.
Clearly set the rules in terms of lateness to class. If a student consistently comes late to class, the faculty should ask for one to one conversation to know how to help the student. Sometimes it is personal problems that might lead to withdrawal by the student. Early intervention is the key.
Building rapport with the students starts from the day of orientation. This will go a long way in giving them a good experience and ultimately improving retention.
Late registration does happen. The students must get to experience orientation even if they are late. A make-up day should be set aside.
Many responsibilities in the faculty, who we can integrate them?
I love the first week activity ideas!!!
