Discusses a 9-point program for research on student persistence. The program is designed to encourage effective policy development at the institutional level. (Author)

Research suggests that addition or expansion of a comprehensive student activities program at community colleges can lower the high student attrition rate and the cost of constant recruitment. Although increased emphasis on comprehensive extracurricular activities can be expensive in personnel and other resources, it may be a worthwhile…

Reviews the current status of assessment programs in higher education, arguing that comprehensive assessment programs will increase the likelihood that minority college students will persist and graduate. Components and design of comprehensive assessment programs created for this purpose are described. Three recommendations for culturally…

Dropout research reveals that students attending two-year institutions persist at significantly lower rates than students enrolled in four-year schools. In addition, the research indicates that student involvement in campus life at any institution increases the likelihood of persistence. Therefore, a major challenge for student services staff in…

This document presents the national plan for research and development (R&D) in adult education and literacy that was developed by the National Institute for Literacy (NIFL). The document begins by explaining the process used to develop the plan, which included conducting a literature review, obtaining input from a national steering group, and…