Presents a model based on person-environment fit that is designed to increase retention of students with unique educational needs in postsecondary vocational education programs. The specific details that surround the development of this model are examined and are related to the nature and extent of the problem. (CT)

This document reports the graduation and retention rates at the University of Hawaii community colleges and compares the graduation and retention rates of students with other institutions. The three rates that are examined in this report are as follows: (1) retention/continuation rate; (2) graduation rate; and (3) success rate (defined as the sum…

This report examines how high stakes assessments affect dropout and high school completion rates. The focus is on five suggestive lines of evidence about this relationship. This evidence is drawn in part from studies done at Boston College or by researchers for the National Board on Educational Testing and Public Policy. The conclusion drawn is…

In this paper, absorbing markov chains are used to analyse the flows of higher degree by research candidates (doctoral and master) within an Australian faculty of business. The candidates are analysed according to whether they are full time or part time. The need for such analysis stemmed from what appeared to be a rather poor completion rate (as…

The focus is on strategies used by 10 urban districts to reduce school dropouts. Thirty-eight strategies for dropout prevention were identified. Although the majority identified dropout prevention strategies, only two districts referred to "recovery programs." If district spokespersons mentioned their CEOs using a systems approach in…

This document provides information on the number of secondary school students in the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) who left school before graduating in the 1982-83 school term. Data on early leavers received from 132 high schools concerned: (1) grade; (2) sex; (3) date of birth; (4) ethnicity; and (5) reason for leaving. The…

In 1982-83, the State of Washington's 299 public school districts (K-12) educated more than 738,000 students; over 70% of these school districts enrolled fewer than 2,000 students and 40% enrolled fewer than 500 students. The small school (fewer than 500 students) graduation rate of 92.6% was 10.6% higher than the statewide average of 82%. Nine…

EQUATIONS FOR SYSTEM INTAKE, DROPOUT, AND RETENTION RATE CALCULATIONS ARE DERIVED FOR ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS, SECONDARY SCHOOLS, AND COLLEGES. THE PROCEDURES DESCRIBED WERE FOLLOWED IN DEVELOPING ESTIMATES OF SELECTED ELEMENTS OF THE TRANSITION PROBABILITY MATRICES USED IN DYNAMOD II. THE PROBABILITY MATRIX CELLS ESTIMATED BY THE PROCEDURES DESCRIBED…

Is there an effective way to reduce freshman attrition at Duke University? If a group of freshman students preidentified as exit prone is provided with more advising time from a member of the ranked faculty, then the rate of attrition from this exit-prone group will be less than the attrition rate for the rest of the freshman cohort. Is there a…

This document presents statistical data concerning the attrition and retention of first-time, full-time students in 2-year and baccalaureate degree programs for the class of 1973 of the State University of New York. Statistics cover attrition and retention in baccalaureate programs and in 2-year programs at institutions of the State University of…

A study was conducted (1) to examine characteristics of programs in which students were enrolled, (2) to determine which activities were most effective in dealing with dropouts, and (3) to validate program components that have previously been associated with retentive capacity. Results are reported and discussed. (CT)

This report addresses the scope of Arizona's dropout problem and strategies for changing the situation. An introduction examines the magnitude of the problem, who is dropping out and why, costs of dropping out, what works in combating high dropout rates, what Arizona citizens and leaders can do, and what steps should be taken to reduce the dropout…

Examines dropout rates in small village high schools. Reports that the shift from boarding schools to small village high schools has dramatically reduced the dropout rates of rural Alaska native students. Suggests related characteristics are small size, personalized atmosphere, sense of community, and individualized instruction. (DHP)

Compares characteristics of California high schools with low and high dropout rates for Hispanic students. Identifies programs and factors that positively influence student retention and keep students from dropping out. Schools with pleasing physical appearance, sound management, efficient and caring staff, and multicultural environments had…

Reviews school behavior and attendance policies in Canada as they relate to student attrition. Discusses a sample of schools in which policies have been revised to provide alternative programs to meet the needs of all students, especially those at risk. These schools work with other social agencies to address problems associated with high dropout…