I found at Computer Learning Center that whan a student believed the Student Advisor (myself) was willing to be fair...that it increased their willingness to come forth with problems...at a early enough time that they could be dealt with. They saw that sometimes, a position was taken "on the side of a teacher". Other times it was "on the side of the student". But they always saw it was after a careful evaluation of the facts. In one case, there had been an instructor who had particular issues with African-American males; and we saw a demonstrated tendency to grade these… >>>

I've always pushed the idea in 22 years of work in post-secondary schools...that whether a student advisor, or a job placement officer that students must be taught they success is real...and possible; even probable; but NEVER as easy. This is especially important because if if success is presented in this manner; the student knows the professional is merely mouthing words, and doesn't really feel the words s/he is saying. When a student doesn't feel you feel what you're saying...they feel that they have no realistic chance at success; and you actually INCREASE the chance of the student dropping. They asume… >>>

How do those interested in creating a climate of student support deal with school management that doesn't "get it"? All too often, management in schools (I've been in proprietary education since 1983) deal with the numbers for THIS class start...and not for the long-term. All too often they don't see that good student service is the right thing...and the effective thing...but is also good business. Specifically, how do we introduce these ideas into becoming a real part of a company's culture? A case in point...when I worked at Computer Learning Center, we made a point of amking clera that Student… >>>

As a former dean and current teacher I can tell you from personal experience that genuine caring (not lip service) will greatly improve overall student retention rates. The students know when they are hearing a line, or if instead you have established an "educational" personal relationship with them. While an individual can have wonderful individual retention rates,it is only from a transformation of corporate and/or institutional culture that will lead to significant success. A great indication of improved retention rates is a robust re-entry rate, where the students leaving due to unavoidable issues make their way back home to you… >>>