Academically at-risk students are those who, for any number or reasons, are not adequately prepared for college.
A. Characteristics
- May be first-generation college students.
- May be financially disadvantaged.
- May have a physical, mental or emotional disability.
- May generally have low self-esteem.
- May have low academic self-concept.
- May have unrealistic grade and career expectations.
- May be unfocused in their career objectives.
- May have external locus of control.
- May lack adequate study skills for college success.
- May believe learning is memorizing.
- May have a history of passive learning.
- May have low level skills in writing, reading or mathematics.
(Ender and Wilkie, 2000)
B. Advising techniques
- Explain importance of developmental courses as foundation/review.
- Recommend regular advising appointments (monthly, semi-monthly).
- Establish a trusting relationship.
- Employ intrusive advising.
- Strive to help them experience academic success.
- Help students gain a sense of belonging and significance on campus.
- Strongly encourage use of academic support systems.
(Jones and Becker 2002)