In this mixed-methods study we identify situations that impact students' decisions to withdraw from a course and examine their affective reasoning and attitudes toward course withdrawal. Exploring students' decision-making processes through the lens of self-authorship, we show that students frequently seek information from people with whom they…

One is best able to teach when familiar with student needs and experiences. Cognitive developmental theory can enhance the "art of teaching" and understanding the cognitive stages of student development can help the advisor appreciate a student's perspective. Cognitive theory is translated into useful advising strategies. (MLW)