The primary theoretical tradition in the study of college retention has been sociological. A review and synthesis of common themes of development among traditional-age, college students suggests that a developmental perspective on the retention of youth in college may have more to offer than the dominant sociological paradigm. This article argues…

A literature review summarizes research on the demography, development, and persistence of nontraditional adult students in higher education. Educational strategies are recommended: developing nontraditional communities on campus, providing appropriate counseling and orientation, training staff to be aware of student backgrounds and needs, and…

This paper reports on research that examined longitudinal data on students entering Tennessee Board of Regents institutions of higher education after the implementation of a state-mandated developmental studies program. The program identifies and helps at-risk students to persist in college to graduation. Data analysis is presented from a 1986…

Three major goals that are consistent and mutually reinforcing are identified: quality education, student development, and retention of students. The factors that encourage persistence in college also increase the benefits of a college education. (MLW)

Reviews literature on informal interaction of college students and faculty. Discusses role of student-faculty interaction with regard to effect on students' academic achievement, satisfaction with college, intellectual and personal development, persistence and attrition, and career and educational aspiration. Research is reviewed that supports…

The background concerning educational programs and practices designed to promote the development, retention, and grade point averages of black college students is traced. The literature reveals historical events and legislative statutes that brought a system of educational inequality to blacks in America. A dual educational system has meant that…

Based on an examination of related literature, reviews the pre- and post-enrollment characteristics of first-generation community college students, and discusses what colleges should do to help these students be successful. Asserts that while considerable research exists on first-generation students on four-year college campuses, the findings and…

This review examines the psychological variables that influence academic performance, by exploring the psychosocial development of students and the individual differences that emerge in childhood and impact upon a student's later self-concept. Areas discussed include identity and achievement issues, gender differences in identity achievement, the…

This study examines the relative stability and change in ethnic students' (Asian, Black, and Hispanic) social and academic expectations during their first year at the University of Massachusetts. The paper investigates how students' expectations were met by their actual experiences and whether students of different racial or ethnic categories…

Studies on the effects of student-faculty interaction and connections between student-faculty interaction and institutional characteristics, college administration, and academic instruction are reviewed. Attention is directed to research investigating the correlations between student-faculty interaction and student development, student…

Student-athletes face a number of challenges that are not inherently addressed in a collegiate institutional structure. In addition to the usual sets of academic and social pressures faced by their nonathlete peers, student-athletes face a unique set of demands, including athletic training, competition, media relations, strength and conditioning…

Five studies on college students are examined for their variety and meaning, and methodological advances leading to increased knowledge of factors affecting student progress are discussed. Researchers are challenged to overcome barriers to student growth identified in previous research. (Author/MSE)

This monograph describes Supplemental Instruction, a student assistance progam designed to improve the academic success of college freshmen based on the idea that if students are not being successful in courses then perhaps colleges should change the way courses are taught. Supplemental Instruction (SI) utilizes regularly scheduled, out-of-class,…