Educators in Indiana's Duneland School District found the transition from elementary schools to a newly organized middle school unacceptably difficult for both the students and their parents. After assessing student and parent preconceptions of the middle school as revealed in their responses to questionnaires, the middle school principal…

While Natives in Alaska comprise almost one-third of the population, over 50% of Native students entering the university are likely to drop out at the end of their first year and only one in fifty is likely to complete the baccalaureate degree. In an effort to increase Native student's chances of success and social adjustment, the University of…

The influence of an intensive two-day orientation to college on freshman voluntary persistence and withdrawal decisions was estimated with an explanatory causal model. Results suggest the major influence of orientation on persistence is indirect, transmitted through positive effects on student social integration and commitment to the institution.…

A group of foreign graduate students (n=29) who participated in a study skills and cultural orientation program at a British university found that in comparison with a group not participating (n=26), and contrary to expectation, participating students had more homesickness and psychological difficulties. The findings cast doubt on the common view…

The effects of the mandated quarter system and the expanded and revised high school curriculum were assessed in Austin, Texas, based upon achievement test scores, attendance records, and objectively collected opinion data in seven areas of concern. The seven decision questions which affected allocation of funds, personnel, time and material…

There has been very little previous evaluation research that examines the effects of interventions on persistence.

In California community colleges, state-mandated matriculation consists of services intended to enhance student success and processes to improve institutional effectiveness by developing capacities for evaluation, coordination, and training. Each year, the Chancellor's Office conducts evaluations to assess the extent to which matriculation is…

In California community colleges, state-mandated matriculation consists of services intended to enhance student success and processes to improve institutional effectiveness by developing capacities for evaluation, coordination, and training. Each year, the Chancellor's Office conducts evaluations to assess the extent to which matriculation is…

In California community colleges, state-mandated matriculation consists of services intended to enhance student success and processes to improve institutional effectiveness by developing capacities for evaluation, coordination, and training. Each year, the Chancellor's Office conducts evaluations to assess the extent to which matriculation is…

In fall 1983, Napa Valley College fully implemented its Student Orientation, Assessment, Advisement, and Retention (SOAAR) program, which consisted of assessment of first-time students' math and reading skills, advisement about enrolling in regular or developmental courses based on scores, course advisement, and the provision of information on…

A study investigated the influence of a precollege seminar for high school seniors on freshmen's anticipatory socialization, grade point averages, persistence, and overall adjustment to college. Results suggest that such a course may be useful in easing the transition to college. Improved college-high school collaboration was a byproduct of the…

A study of a summer bridge program's effects on low-income and minority groups students during their first year at the University of California, Los Angeles, found that such programs can facilitate transition and adjustment to university or college life and improve academic performance and persistence rates. (Author/MSE)

The first-semester orientation course at Irvine Valley College (IVC), in California, a non-required course taught by counselors, covers time management, study skills, academic policies, career and academic major exploration, and support services. In an effort to evaluate the effectiveness of the course, a study was conducted of the 1990 freshman…

This two-part report reviews the implementation and operation of a student counseling program conducted during 1977-78 in the developmental studies division of Southeastern Community College (SCC) with funds provided by the Exxon Education Foundation. Part I discusses: (1) the impact of the program on the college's counseling philosophy, (2) the…

Presented in case study form is the advising and orientation plan developed for a National Science Foundation grant to prepare future science and mathematics teachers. Comprehensive recruitment strategies, an orientation course, off-campus retreats and field experiences, and academic advising and career counseling elements are described.…