Best Practices for Helping At-Risk Learners

This course presents 46 research-based tools, worksheets and resources which have been field-tested at schools and in dropout prevention programs across the country. They help teachers, administrators, counselors and special educators who work with at-risk learners. It also explores the 15 strategies identified by the National Dropout Prevention Center. The book has indexes by grade level, job title and by individual strategy. Educators will develop writings, lessons or activities for classroom applications that help at-risk students to be successful in school. (3 credits)

Write a brief paragraph or two about ideas, knowledge and information that you thought was significant from each chapter in the book. Perhaps statements, a paragraph or a concept that was enlightening and applicable to teaching. Bullet points of main issues are also fine.

1. Family Engagement
2. Early Childhood Education
3. Mentoring and Tutoring
4. Service Learning
5. Alternative Schooling
6. After-School Opportunities
7. Professional Development
8. Instruction and Improving Achievement

1. Teachers will have a framework of knowledge for working successfully with at-risk students.
2. Educators taking this course will learn about ways of encouraging students to think about staying in school and how to make your student and school family friendly.
3. Teachers will learn how to identify high-performing at-risk students and what parents can do to intervene when their child begins to fail in school.
4. Students will explore the best practices and strategies that can help reduce school dropouts.
5. Teachers will write a research paper, a lesson or unit plan that utilizes strategies or activities in the book uses some of the instructional techniques for improving student achievement.

Write a two or three-page final application paper regarding your experience and understanding of the book Best Practices for Helping At-Risk Students. The essay should be in an area of interest that is relevant to your teaching and life experience. Write about your own experience and how you will apply the information in the book to your methodology or classroom. Alternative options to the final essay could be a classroom activity, a lesson plan or unit-plan.

Total assignments include:

1. Chapter Reviews
2. Final Application Essay (or alternative assignment)
3. Research Article Review