The Human Factor in Retention
How important is the human factor in student retention?
The Human Factor is key to retention because it is the most important factor in relevancy of instructor knowledge and ability to transfer that to the student understanding and his or her ability to use it in real world applications.
I feel the human factor is paramount. If my students believe that I care about them as a peerson and want to help them succeed they are much more likely to fight through the obstacles to success. It is very motivating to know you are not alone.
The human factor is essential in converting information to analysis and application for students. Students want to find relevance in their study materials. Application of the materials to each student and helping them find their connection individually is key. The students who do not do well typically are those who do not find acknowledgement and understanding in the classroom.
We are all Humans and as such have to understand that "life" sometimes gets in the way of learning. As instructors we need to take life into consideration and where we can, without compromising integrity allow for deviations and discretion.
Kim,
Yes it is. It is what keeps students coming back and working hard to be successful in class even when life outside of school may be bearing down heavy on them.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Diana,
This is a very good point because life does happen. By considering the impact an event may have or is having on a student you can provide support and encouragement and help them work through this tough time. Knowing you care about them as individuals and their future goes a long way in helping them to stay in school.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Including the Human factor in Adult education is essential. If the student does not feel respected as an adult and as a person that has sacrificed their time and energy to come back to school they are not going to continue to attend.
Antonio,
Good point and one that needs to be remembered each time we step into a classroom or lab. These adults need to see they are valued and respected for the life experiences they are bringing to the class.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
The "human factor" is often times of equal importance as the course content in the retention of students. Respect, acknowledgement, and caring about each individual student and the challenges they may be facing lets them know that you truly and genuinely care about them as a person. When a student feels valued and respected, they want to do their best and they rise to the standards that are being asked of them more easily. If an instructor does not show the students respect, they will not receive the respect in return from their students and the learning environment is compromised.
Lori,
Well said. Sometimes the human factor is lost in the process of teaching and the result is the loss of students. Knowing their learning leader cares about them and their future is critical for keeping students engaged.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
It is very important to feel like someone is there to help you through obstacles. I believe that we need to give our students a few moments to discuss and relay possible topics that are outside the course objective but that allow them to feel heard and valued.
Wendy,
This is the human factor in teaching. Knowing that your instructor cares about you as an individual is important for students especially those that may be struggling with life challenges that could cause them to drop out.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I always tell sudents I care and want to set you up for success not failure
Susan,
Knowing this helps students to see the value of the course and your role as their learning leader.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Naturally, the human factor plays a significant role in student retention. Every individual needs to be recognized as equally important and significant as everyone else, within the realm of the classroom. Knowing one's students' names and picking up on pieces of their unique personalities allows for more positive "human" interaction. Definitely, the instructor sets this tone.
That said, it IS important to remember that, despite external situations, circumstances and human happenstance, the students' attendance, contribution, and participation within the classroom must still be met.
Amy,
Good point about the human factor. Yes we instructors can be supportive and help students move forward in the course but as you mention that does not change the meeting of the course requirements and they have to remember that as they deal with external challenges.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
The human factor is a pertinent part of retention. Students need to feel that the teacher and school has an emotional attachment to their success to help motivate them to come to class everyday. They have to know that the instrcutors and staff are humans also and can relate in someway to what the student has or did experience.
Laura,
Yes, it is. It is also the fun part of being an instructor. Sharing the growth of students through support and encouragement helps them to be successful while we impact their lives. This is one of the rewards of being an educator.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Human factor is extremly important with all learners groups (any age )if you show that you care they will start carying as well...
