Retention research and action programs are reviewed, and findings from the 1979 national survey entitled "What Works in Student Retention" (WWISR) are examined. The WWISR survey was designed to identify, analyze, and compile information about campus efforts to improve student retention in higher education. Questionnaires on retention were analyzed for 947 institutions, along with 1,024 activity report forms from these schools. Multiple-action programs were found to be the most successful. Three general areas of concern are identified: (1) academic stimulations and assistance; (2) personal future building by helping student to clarify their goals and directions; (3) involvement experiences directed at students. Among the types of retention activities, for which examples are provided, are the following: faculty awareness and development activities, career assistance programs, learning support centers and activities, expanded orientation activities, peer programs, and academic advising. Specific target groups to which action programs may be directed are high-risk and/or low academic performing students, new students, students who are undecided about majors and careers, and women and adult students. Suggestions are offered regarding administrative arrangements, agendas for action; research priorities, and programs for survey forms, and lists of positive and negative campus characteristics, potential dropout characteristics, and additional action program information. (SW)