Physical Education

Statement of the Problem

The problem that this research study addressed is the extremely low retention rates

and persistence of African American male students in community colleges. The focus of this

study was on how the experiences of the African American male community college student

influence persistence. The literature, though limited, documents probably the small graduation

rates of African American male students in higher education and colleges specifically. When

examining statistical data for African American male students in two year institutions, these

students have the lowest level attainment rate when comparing the enrollment to degree

attainment ratio.

Prior research on African American male students in community colleges focuses on

the usual factors influencing persistence. Student characteristics, general campus

environment, excellent retention efforts, and external factors are the standard variables examined

by researchers. This research study sought to explore in greater depth the experiences of

African American male students in community colleges and to discover their own stories.

Initiatives

Institutions of higher education provide appropriate experiences to students that will provide relevant experiences for males that will promise academic achievement, professional and social progress create opportunities for leadership and student life engagement.

 Learning/Persistence

 Leadership

 Social Justice Issues

 Community Involvement

 Cultural and spiritual Awareness

Retention

The retention efforts are supported by two of the four BMI peer educators serving as tutors in our Academic Success Center. This year, the tutors received requests from 70 percent of the males in the Academic Success Center. Another strategy that is impacting male retention is the Early Alert program which serves to help identify students who need academic intervention.

Engagements

Our central goal is to engage 50 percent of the males enrolled on campus in an activity or event. In 2010 the goal was reached, and the participation was exactly 50 percent. In 2011, the rate increased to nearly 75 percent.