Metzinger, M. L. (2007). Indicators of Academic Success: A Study of Native American Retention (Doctoral dissertation, Capella University). 

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine key factors which enabled or hindered the success of Native American students at a private, Midwestern college. Twenty-six Native American students were asked to complete surveys and participate in semistructured interviews to explore the experiences of both graduates and nongraduates of the College. Results from both the qualitative and quantitative study were analyzed within Swail’s Geometric Model of Student Persistence and Achievement including cognitive, social and institutional factors. Conclusions drawn from each of the three areas of Swail’s Model included becoming more culturally aware of learning needs and learning styles of Native American students, increased emphasis on retention services and a dedication to following up with those students who step-out temporarily, maintain a visible presence within the reservation high schools to encourage and provide services to students preparing for postsecondary education by enrolling in college-preparatory courses while in high school and to remediate those not enrolled in such courses.