Retention of Online Learners

Abstract

The most important word for contemporary global higher education institutions is retention. Although online education enrollment in these institutions has increased by approximately 40 percent in recent years, the dropout rates for online students is approximately 20-30 percent more than for face-to-face classes. Institutions have tried to address this issue, but the dropout rate continues to be a serious concern. The authors of this manuscript propose that the addition of online services for online students as a possible solution.

Mentoring as complementary support for learner engagement

“…The quality of services that support students often shapes students' learning experience (LaPadula, 2003) and, as one of the first learner-support services they encounter, orientating new students to ODL plays an important role in enhancing their learning (Lemoine et al, 2019). While self-help services may be available 24/7 on ODL institution websites, it can be challenging for students to use them when they are new to online learning.…”

“…Fredricks et al (2004) discuss engagement as a multifaceted concept that encompasses a range of interrelated behavioural, social, emotional, and cognitive factors; they note that emotional engagement likely leads to increases in behavioural and cognitive engagement, both of which affect subsequent achievement. While much research exists on the beneficial outcomes of the connection between faculty and students in the instructional context, there is a limited understanding of how students experience institutional support outside of the instructional context (Lemoine et al, 2019;Sánchez-Elvira Paniagua & Ormond, 2018). Therefore, more research is needed to understand how complementary support interventions can influence students' course engagement at various points of their student journeys.…”