Factors Affecting Student Success in Small Collage-Classroom Settings

Abstract

Teacher qualifications are reported to be one of the most important factors affecting learning, yet improving teacher qualifications is difficult, time consuming and sometimes impossible in the short term. Knowledge of other factors that have limited effects on student learning and success may be more valuable if these factors are more easily manipulated. In this study, factors affecting student success were studied in small classroom settings in undergraduate Biology classes. A strong correlation between the sitting position of the student in the classroom and student success was demonstrated in the study. In addition, there was a strong correlation between good note taking skills and student success. Sitting position is a factor that can easily be manipulated and can be of help especially for failing students. Instruction of good note taking skills during K-12 education and strategies that will determine and support the students that need improvement in this particular skill early on in college will promote the academic success of students in STEM areas in higher education.