How to Improve Commitment of GED Students

GED Research by Steven Levy, May 2011
How to Improve Commitment of GED Students

A key factor in learning is commitment. I have seen adult learners make rapid progress in GED math. For this to happen, they must be committed. Speed is important. If it takes too long, adult learners give up maybe for many years.

Gopal1:
Fewer than 20% of adult learners in GED programs graduate in 12 months. 65% of these individuals stay away from continuing education for three or more years. Most GED students are under 25. Whites account for 27% while minorities are 9%. The first few weeks are critical. This is when students drop out. 71% will never return. Learners who are close to passing the GED are more likely to stay.

• GED learners need multiple learning options, for advanced and basic students
• Learners attain early success
• Re-evaluate periodically

Gopal2:

Three phone call attempts and one letter, got 25% to return for at least one class.

Wilson:
Drop outs are more hostile, yet need more support. They are more dependent.

References

1. Learner Retention in Adult Secondary Education: A Comparative Study, by Ajit Gopalakrishnan Connecticut Department of Education, Fall 2008. Found in the ERIC database.
2. Learner Retention in Adult Secondary Education: Contacting Students A Comparative Study, Ajit Gopalakrishnan, Connecticut Department of Education, 1999
3. Personological Differences Between Enrolled GED Students Who Drop Out and Who Retain, Wilson, Russell, Paper given at the Adult Education Research Conference, Minneapolis, MN, 1977.