EDC 697 Dropout Prevention

This course develops an explanation as to why capable students leave school before graduation. The explanation is presented as a model for the prevention of school dropouts. Students are first provided a graphic depiction of the model and then are sequentially presented the components of the model. There are four major components to the model: internal blame, dropout reinforcement, social status in school, and multiple issues. In presenting the model components the interaction of students who are enduring these 'causal factors' with the school, the curriculum and social context of the school are described in examples and typical problems associated with potential dropouts. A test for identifying potential dropouts is used by students based on the model. In addition, the model is used by the students to evaluate existing dropout programs and for developing dropout prevention strategies. Students will exit this course having developed a dropout program based on the explanation. (3 credits)