Using data on variability in West Virginia high school dropout rates, this study examined contextual factors in teen pregnancy. Results indicated that teen pregnancy was explained in a similar way to dropping out. The presence or absence of opportunities and valued participation in a socially, culturally stable community affected both issues. (SM)

Discusses three approaches to help teachers of alienated students ward off despair: (1) separating soluble from insoluble problems; (2) finding curriculum content that is interesting and involving to teachers and students; and (3) acknowledging within themselves some of the feelings and behaviors teachers find so appalling in their most difficult…

Presents excerpts from 12 case studies of rural at-risk students. Examines their common characteristics, the high prevalence of at-risk students in rural areas, the relationship of this phenomenon to rural cultures, and prevention and treatment factors in the school and community. Contains 16 references. (SV)

Presents practical suggestions regarding how college faculty can promote the success of American Indian college students by recognizing and dealing with racism, recognizing nontraditional leadership skills, providing personal support, clarifying goals and expectations, and encouraging students' self-understanding and positive self-image. Contains…

A discussion of the success of Oakes College (Santa Cruz, California) at attracting and retaining Black and Hispanic students looks at the early experimental nature of the college, what was learned in its early years, and the educational and policy strategies that have evolved through controversy and crisis. (MSE)

The article identifies challenges in special education during the 1990's including determining who is to be served, demographic changes, the dropout problem, making the most of resources, advocacy for teachers, collaboration with other professionals, expanding the knowledge base regarding effective instruction, the special education-regular…

Looks at the way community interaction with students developed from the "The McWhorter Book" project at McWhorter Elementary School (Lubbock, Texas). States that the project was designed to respond to drop-out problems. Preparing advertisements for local businesses helped students develop a deeper understanding of the community and of…

March 1992 Current Population Survey data were used to identify persons in central city, suburban, and rural areas with multiple disadvantages: high school dropouts, welfare recipients, never-married mothers, underemployed men, and poor people. About 26% of adults with multiple disadvantages lived in rural areas. Of those, 69% were white and 65%…

Discusses problems of sample selection in explaining student performance in economics classes. Reports on a study of student performance correlated with class attendance, course dropouts, and homework. Concludes that any researcher gathering data about instructional effectiveness must account for students who drop the class. (CFR)

Describes a systemwide effort within the Colorado Community College and Occupational Education System to develop a framework for improving student persistence and success. Highlights changes to the original Bean and Metzner retention model, the characteristics and needs of Colorado's two-year college student population, the campus-based…

Reports on a study of 6,718 college students enrolled in an introductory economics course to determine factors associated with successful achievement. Finds high overall academic achievement in high school and a strong mathematics background, especially calculus, were the two most important factors. (CFR)

For improving participation of blacks and Hispanics in higher education, the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board focuses on changing institutions rather than removing barriers. Initiatives have included recruitment, college dropout prevention, and dissemination of institution-specific participation and achievement data. Follow-up site visits…

Surveyed 160 Native American secondary students in a tribal school in Manitoba. Found study habits and attitudes toward teachers and educational practices were far less positive for Native American junior high boys than average non-Native American norms, and were considerably more positive among Native American senior high than junior high…

Telephone interviews with 215 handicapped recent high school graduates or drop outs found that the areas of most concern to themselves and their parents included affective issues (e.g., poor self-esteem) and issues of vocational success and personal independence. Findings are discussed in relation to the educational intervention experienced in…

Despite expansion in participation, Austrian higher education remains somewhat elitist. However, concepts of efficiency, strategic planning, deregulation, and performance evaluation are creating pressure for policy change. Inadequate admissions policies, overcrowding, and high dropout rates need to be addressed. (Author/MSE)