Improving Learner Retention in English Online Courses: Current Situation from a Center of Foreign Languages in Vietnam

Abstract

Online learning has experienced rapid growth recently, particularly due to many schools’ closures because of the Covid-19 pandemic. While the number of online learners is steadily growing, retaining learners in online courses and programs has posed a challenge. Retention rates are vital data that is indicative of an institution’s ability to engage learners in their learning, satisfy their educational needs, and prevent them from dropping out. With the aim to explore possible reasons why learners drop out in their online learning and identify effective ways to improve learner retention, this study examines 164 online learners at a center of foreign languages through an online survey. The findings indicate that online learning is still a revolutionary trend of education and learner retention rates have been positive in most online courses. Practical recommendations are included so that institutions can use these results immediately to impact their policies and practices.