The future of technology in student retention

How can technology be used to help at-risk students?

According to a recent survey conducted by Education Dynamics, only 2% of the colleges surveyed have technology-based warning systems. The survey found that of schools that are targeting at risk students, the 2 most effective ways were face-to-face interventions and one-on-one phone calls.

64% of survey respondents said that web based programs for tracking at risk students were "some what" or "very" important. This seems extremely low to me. I think it'd be very smart for educators and administrators to start using technology to target at-risk student.

As a librarian, I am concerned about students that noticeably struggle with their academics- primarily researching skills, because that is my role as a reference and instruction librarian. I can observe when a student is at-risk in regards to information literacy, and I think web-based systems are a great way to document the risks. Documenting and tracking this information could help students at all colleges and universities.

Also, I find that most students would rather have me contact them by email or instant message. Our library uses Meebo, and multi-generational students (especially millennials) find e-communication easier and quicker than face-to-face interaction or phone calls. This doesn't mean that reference questions via face-to-face or phone are extinct. It just means that libraries can offer different avenues for students/patrons to seek library assistance.

*I learned about this study via Campustechnology.com.

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