Abstract
The purpose of this paper is to review current and applicable literature on student retention. Retention is defined as the ability of a college or university to graduate the students who initially enroll (Berger, Ramirez, & Lyon, 2012). First, retention theory and current research is explored. Then, this report focuses on academic advising and first-year orientation as it relates to student retention. Academic advising is a traditionally underestimated component of retention that is further explored in this paper. Additionally, first-year orientation creates a commitment to the institution of higher education early on in students’ academic careers. Both of these topics have shown various strategies that can increase a student re-enrolling in college. However, the authors did not find conclusive answers regarding what increases retention in higher education. Findings are inconsistent, so administrators should use caution when using research to improve practice. Implications for future research are discussed to conclude this paper.
Recommended Citation
Anaya, Katrina and Carr, Kelly
(2014)
"Retention Theory, Academic Advising, and Orientation: A Literature Review,"
MAGIS: Vol. 8:
Iss.
1, Article 16.
Available at:
https://scholarworks.seattleu.edu/magis/vol8/iss1/16