Current Status of Grade Retention and Dropout in Physical Therapist Training Schools and Effective Countermeasures

<p>Objectives: This study developed a new theoretical framework called “Effective Training Schools” theory, and examined the efficacy of its constituent elements, with a view to clarifying effective countermeasures against grade retention and dropout in physical therapist training schools. Subjects: The study involved administrative and full-time teaching staff of 81 three-year physical therapy training schools. Methods: The current status and approaches of each school were examined using a questionnaire, and interviews were conducted with administrative and full-time teaching staff of schools achieving positive outcomes through their approaches. Results: A t-test revealed significant differences between schools with and without the following 4 items of the “Effective Training Schools” theory: “teamwork among teaching staff,” “class preparation using a variety of teaching styles,” “strong interest in education,” and “proactive approaches to education”. Conclusion: Consultation with administrative staff, self-improvement of teaching staff, and class preparation using a variety of teaching styles may be effective in reducing grade retention, while appropriate class management during the first year and efforts to resolve differences in academic performance among students may be effective in reducing dropout.</p>