Open AccessThe Effect of Instructor-to-Student Ratios, Academic Preparation, and Selective Admissions on Retention Rates Among CAAHEP Accredited Paramedic Training Programs.
Author(s) -
Justin Tilghman
Publication year - 2022
Publication title -
the internet journal of allied health sciences and practice
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 1540-580X
DOI - 10.46743/1540-580x/2022.2089
Subject(s) - accreditation , retention rate , medical education , psychology , retention time , medicine , business , chemistry , chromatography , marketing
Purpose: This study was a non-experimental evaluative study designed to identify the effects of instructor-to-student ratios, academic preparation, and selective admissions processes on retention rates among CAAHEP accredited paramedic training programs in the United States. Methods: Self-reported data from accredited program directors was analyzed to identify what relationships, if any, existed among the variables. Results: Results showed no effect of instructor-to-student ratios or academic preparation on retention rates. However, those programs that utilized selective admissions processes reported a statistically significantly higher student retention rate when compared to those that did not. Conclusions: Paramedic programs seeking to improve retention rates should consider utilizing a selective admissions process.