Assessed whether the Student Diversity Program (SDP) at Cal State Fullerton increased retention, examining graduation rates and ending grade point averages (GPAs) of students and matched controls in four cohorts. Found that SDP students graduated at twice the rate of comparable students after 5 years, although GPAs were not different. (EV)

Describes how strength in numbers lies behind the success of the Posse Foundation, a program that takes kids who do not fit the typical merit scholarship profile and sends them as teams or "posses" to competitive colleges around the nation. (EV)

This study compared college students at various levels of academic persistence and achievement. Previous high school achievement and preference for complex explanations of behavior are the best correlates with persistence and achievement. Other correlates include effective time management and recognition of the influence of social contexts on…

Among theories of student departure from college, interactional theories--that attrition is a result of interaction between attributes of students and the institutional environment--are currently popular. Of particular interest to continuing educators is the direct effect of absenteeism and academic advising on dropout. (SK)

This paper proposes two nontraditional models for recruiting and retaining minority students in special education preservice teacher education programs. The first model is for implementation at middle and high school levels, the second for college/university levels. Both are adaptable for various programs of study. Also included are methods for…

Nine training programs for non-traditional mathematics and science teachers were analyzed. It appears that: (1) all programs are not equally effective; (2) the quality of preparation makes a difference in how well-prepared recruits feel; and (3) non-traditional preparation cannot overcome all problems that make recruitment and retention difficult.…

California Lutheran University's seven-week freshman seminar focuses on building relationships and helping students make decisions about their college and occupational careers. Issues arising in the course's evolution include the role of peer advisors, major vs. non-major advising, maintaining institution-wide support, and credit and academic…

Outlines concerns that cause beginning teachers to leave rural schools. Discusses components of an overall teacher recruitment strategy, benefits of living and teaching in rural areas, and possible teacher incentives. Lists teacher retention strategies based on community or social environment, staff development, support procedures, or incentives.…

A study of 114 sixth graders assessed the effects of a learner-control strategy involving choice of elaborative materials in a computer-based tutorial. Results of the study, which incorporated a task-persistence variable, indicate that persistence was related to performance and that learner control enhanced persistent subjects' performance. (TJH)

College students (N=39) completed five parts of a modified version of Rusbult and Farrell's commitment questionnaire. Responses were correlated with the students' final course grade in calculus, grade point average, and grade in humanities. Results showed that the investment model significantly predicted calculus grade and grade point average.…

Presents data on university entrance of graduates from the International Baccalaureate (IB) program since its inception 25 years ago. Examines both foreign IB diploma holders and United States diploma holders entering universities in the United States. Concludes that there is high degree of persistence among IB students, with nearly all diploma…

Ten mildly handicapped preschool children were taught to use problem-solving strategies to complete fine motor tasks. Qualitative and quantitative data indicated that the intervention had a positive impact on the task persistence of some children and that some children became more systematic in their approach to solving tasks. (Author/JDD)

This paper examines the demand for teachers in the United Kingdom and establishes the factors which determine teacher shortages. Policy options aimed at alleviating these shortages are suggested. (Author)

The efforts of five Bowling Green State University (Ohio) graduate students to design, develop, and implement a student retention training program using graduate assistants are described. Special techniques used to train participants and lessons learned in the process are noted. (MSE)

New York City Technical College designed transitional activities to ensure that high school tech prep students continued for the final two years of the program. Features included shadowing, entrance exam workshops, advanced standing workshops, and preregistration. (JOW)