Student retention and support in open and distance learning.

Abstract

Tertiary education institutions take the issue of student retention and successful completion of courses and programmes by students very seriously. The substantial literature on this topic suggests that withdrawal and drop-out are particularly prevalent in open and distance learning. However, literature does not appear to offer any clear answers as to the causes of the problem, nor does it present any proven solutions that would reduce the incidence of withdrawal or drop-out. This study, based on a literature survey and experience gained in an open and distance learning environment, finds that much of the completion data cited in the literature has little comparative value. Hence, it is suggested that the 'problem of drop-out' in open and distance learning, relative to that in face-to-face provision, has been overstated and that the two modes of delivering tertiary education cannot be compared directly.