The step from high school to college may actually be better termed a large leap. Students need to make important changes in their expectations, approaches, habits, attitudes and responsibilities. For students who are moving away and living at school the challenges are even greater. Although most students understand that there will be significant changes in their social world and in their independence and responsibilities, many students — and their parents — underestimate the significance of the academic differences between high school and college.
Although they may be ready for college in many ways, a portion of students may not be ready for college level academic work. Most colleges recognize that some students need to improve academic skills or fill in gaps in order to enhance their chances for academic success. These students needing extra readiness skills may be placed in ”developmental courses”. Although these courses may have different titles or designations at different institutions, their purpose is the same: to help the student gain proficiency in basic skills in order to help him succeed.
