School Dropout: Causes, Consequences, and Prevention

Study Notes

Dropout Students: Causes, Consequences, and Support Programs

Introduction

School dropout is a prevalent issue globally, affecting individuals, families, communities, and nations at large. The phenomenon occurs when a student leaves school at any level of education without a certificate to account for their education period. This article delves into the causes of dropping out, the consequences of doing so, and the strategies to prevent it.

Causes of Dropping Out

School dropout can be attributed to a variety of factors, including adverse situations within the school environment that push students out, such as tests, attendance and discipline policies, and consequences of poor behavior. Additionally, factors inside the student can pull them away from completing school, such as financial worries, out-of-school employment, family needs, or family changes like marriage or childbirth. A student can also fall out of school when they do not show significant academic progress and become apathetic.

Consequences of Dropping Out

The consequences of dropping out are far-reaching and can have a significant impact on the individual, their family, and their community. Dropouts earn significantly less than those with a high school diploma, with a lifetime income 50 to 100 percent lower. This disparity exists throughout their lives. Moreover, dropouts are more likely to engage in high-risk behaviors, such as incarceration, and may encounter difficulties in obtaining a driver's license or employment certificate.

Prevention Strategies

Preventing dropouts involves addressing both push and pull factors. This may include after-school tutoring, active learning, finding a mentor through community centers, or helping students understand a potential learning disability that may affect their academic success. Parental involvement can also contribute to student success by staying involved in education, checking in with teachers, attending extracurricular events, and setting academic expectations.

Support Programs

The National Dropout Prevention Center (NDPC) offers various resources to support students at risk of dropping out, including professional development for educators and technical assistance for schools. Additionally, programs like the Educational Longitudinal Study: 2002 (ELS:2002) and the Educational Testing Service's Policy Information Center have conducted research and provided data to better understand the underlying causes of dropouts and inform prevention strategies.

In conclusion, understanding the causes and consequences of dropping out is crucial in developing effective prevention strategies and support programs. By addressing these issues, we can work towards reducing the dropout rate and providing students with the necessary tools to succeed in their academic and personal lives.

Description

Explore the various factors leading to school dropout, the wide-ranging consequences for individuals and communities, and the strategies and support programs available to prevent students from leaving school prematurely.