Student retention is a growing concern for colleges and universities throughout the United States.  With decreasing endowments, every student that pays tuition brings the campus valuable operating funds, not to mention a more vibrant community.  Data collected by ACT over the past 20 years indicate that five-year graduation rates have remained relatively stable, with just over 50% of students who begin college actually receiving a degree at the same institution. Research shows an average attrition rate of 20% for the first year, 11% for the second year, and 9% for the third and later years.  Some students eventually complete their degrees via transfer to another university or college, but it remains a fact that for many schools, dropout is almost as common as graduation.

Recently, there have been two studies published that provide suggestions for improved retention and both talk alot about building stronger communities.

The 2009 Noel Levitz Report on Student Retention Trends listed the “top ten most effective retention practices” that were rated by 316 schools, out of 60 items measured.  The study broke down differences between 2-year public, 4-year public, and 4-year private schools, but two or even all three types of schools included the following in their top ten:

• orientation program for first year students
• programs designed specifically for first year students
• first-year experience program

It seems like schools recognize the need to provide new students with a framework into which they can find their niche and bond with their community.

Education Dynamics focused on this theme, as well, in their White Paper called “University Purpose Networks: Online Communities for Student Retention and Success“.  They highlighted “Best Practices for Building Effective Purpose Communities”, which they argue are vital to enhancing student engagement and retention, including:

• Begin orientation earlier through online communities.
• Bring learning communities online.
• Enhance feelings of student belonging through online mentoring

Again, we see the common theme of community building.  The more a student feels like they are an important part of something, the richer their experience will be, and the less likely they are to want to leave.   What is your school doing to breed community?