Persistence of Physics and Engineering Students via Peer Mentoring, Active Learning, and Intentional Advising

Abstract

We have developed and implemented a low-cost peer-mentoring program that blends personal and academic support to help students achieve academic success in the introductory courses required for the Physics Major or the Dual-Degree Program in Engineering. As a result of this program, retention has increased among entering science, technology, engineering and mathematics students at Albion College as they move through the introductory classes, as shown by a 20 per cent increase in retention from first-semester to third-semester physics courses compared to years when this program was not in place.