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Institutional Factors
Shirley Wells argues that the factors that place students at risk and contribute
to the decision to drop out, include institution, community, and family.
Examples of Shirley Wells Institutional Factors
Disregard of individual student learning styles
Social cohesion and racism
Curriculum issues
Large enrollment/class size
Language of instruction
Participation in governance
Effective student assessment
Instructional diversity
Professional development opportunities
In alignment with Hammond et al, Wells also argues that no one factor leads to the
decision to drop out, rather it is a combination of factors.
Cross-cultural sensitivity
Appropriate role models
Low expectations from staff
Low parent/community involvement
Negative and/or unsafe environment
Passive instructional strategies
Student and staff support
Rigid daily and weekly schedules
Segregation and discrimination