A study of student attrition rates in 15 Florida junior colleges considered students' educational objectives and plans to reach them. Responses show two groups commonly mislabeled dropouts: those who originally planned to take one or more courses and those who left planning to return. Only two percent were considered legitimate dropouts. (JT)

The formation of a psychotherapy relationship was studied using self-reports of clients and therapists. Items designed as measures of a set of dimensions considered salient to the process of therapy were incorporated into client and therapist report forms. A number of client and therapist dimensions predicted persistence in treatment. (Author)

This report examines the pathways of recent school leavers who enter the higher education sector in Australia. The focus is on the first three years after completing senior secondary school. The report has four broad aims: (1) to provide estimates of the proportions of entrants who change courses or leave the higher education sector before…

Approximately 9 out of 10 high school students who have access to a home computer use that computer to complete school assignments. Using the Computer and Internet Use Supplements to the 2001 Current Population Survey, this study explores whether access to home computers increases the likelihood of school enrollment among teenagers who have not…

This survey analyzes the characteristics of students who dropped all of their classes at City College of San Francisco (CCSF) before the college's census date. The survey finds that students who drop all of their classes are similar to students who remain enrolled, yet tend to be older, to hold a college-level degree, and to hold at least one…

This study addressed the question of whether new Regents graduation requirements and higher standards for grade promotion are leading to an increase in the dropout rate in New York City schools, examining data from previous research on similar issues. One study noted the impact of promotional Gates for grades 4 and 7 (part of promotional policy in…

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…

Patterns of attrition at a midwestern research university were examined through telephone interviews of 622 students who had left the institution prematurely and through analysis of institutional data to compare school leavers with those who stayed. This comparison found that school leavers were more likely to have lower college admission test…

This study attempted to track students (n=2,077) who entered the University of Minnesota (Twin Cities campus) in 1986 but had not completed a degree at that institution within eight years of matriculation. The study utilized the Minnesota Higher Education Services Office's statewide database which allowed researchers to determine if, when, and…

The use of computer graphics techniques in a study of attrition at the University of Akron is outlined to illustrate potential applications. The techniques produce information that is more readily interpreted than the usual data tables. Specific software information and illustrations are included. (MSE)

Discusses several variables related to premature termination from groups including therapist, environmental, and client variables. Methodological and operational problems as well as implications for further research are identified. (Author/RC)

Describes a study to identify differences in alienation feelings and attitudes toward school between dropouts and persisters. Indicates that dropouts have greater feelings of alienation, meaninglessness, and powerlessness, and more negative attitudes toward school and former teachers than do persisters. Briefly describes Focus, a dropout…

Studies a sample of Mexican-American students identified as potential dropouts and finds drug use is widespread. Cigarettes, marijuana, and alcohol are used by the majority of students. "Social" drugs are used more often. Students do not think that general drug use causes social problems; however, girls' attitudes differ from boys'. (Author/BEF)