Impact of a Short Pre-Freshman Program on Retention

Sheri M. Wischusen, Louisiana State University
E. William Wischusen, Louisiana State University
Steven M. Pomarico, Louisiana State University

Abstract

The Biology Intensive Orientation for Students (BIOS) Program at Louisiana State University was designed to increase the success of incoming freshman biology majors in the first course in their major. The program combined content lectures and examinations for BIOL 1201-Introductory Biology for Science Majors, the first course in their major, as well as learning styles assessments and informational sessions intended to provide the students with a preview of the requirements of biology, and the pace of college. BIOS participants showed increased success and retention in the biology major, and remained on track to graduate in 4 years at a significantly higher rate than students who did not participate in BIOS.