Why Lack of Basic Skills Leads to Dropouts:
<<< Academic Challenges: >>>
College coursework, from writing essays to understanding mathematical concepts, relies on strong foundational skills. Students without these skills will struggle to engage with assignments, interpret information, and meet academic expectations, leading to failure.
<<< Increased Risk of Remedial Courses: >>>
Many students entering college lack preparation, needing to take remedial or developmental courses in English and math.
<<< Negative Effects of Remedial Work: >>>
These courses can be financially costly and time-consuming, setting students back further and causing them to become discouraged and drop out before reaching college-level courses.
<<< Disengagement and Disconnection: >>>
When students fall behind academically, they often disengage from classes and lose motivation, which can lead to them dropping out entirely.
<<< Reinforcing Existing Gaps: >>>
The challenge of catching up can be so overwhelming that students become disengaged, further widening the gaps in their knowledge and skills.
The Importance of Foundational Skills:
<<< Basis for College Success: >>>
Strong reading, writing, and math skills are crucial for success in higher education, as they are integral to nearly all college coursework and learning.
<<< Critical for Future Employment: >>>
Deficiencies in these basic skills can also lead to higher unemployment rates and reduced earning po
tential, creating a cycle of economic marginalization.
