SORTING, SUPPORTING, CONNECTING, AND TRANSFORMING: RETENTION STRATEGIES AT COMMUNITY COLLEGES

Abstract

Through the development of a typology of dropout prevention programs, the literature about student retention programs at community colleges is synthesized in this article. The four types of retention strategies identified are: (a) sorting (of students into homogeneous subgroups), (b) supporting (of students in dealing with life's problems or responsibilities), (c) connecting (of students to each other and the institution), and (d) transforming (of students and/or the community college). Using these categories, a definition of a comprehensive retention program is proffered.