Retention and Online Learning

Whitney Kilgore

Why do students drop out?

• Personal variables • Institutional variables • Circumstantial variables

2http://www.westga.edu/~distance/ojdla/winter94/herbert94.htm

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How do Faculty impact retention?

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Organize content by topicResearch shows that knowledge retention is enhanced when content is served up in manageable portions.

Encourage CollaborationConnected students are engaged learners.

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Instructor PresenceTry to spend some time with your online course every day.See what’s new with your students, and keep them updated.

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Maintain a strict class scheduleTo-Do lists with due dates and timelines are effective.Don’t alter your plan.

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Develop rapportOnline communications should develop rapport with students and build peer relationships.

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Timely feedbackEncourage students to perform at their peak with constructive and timely feedback.

Be available

Encourage students to e-mail you with any questions they have related to the course.

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Encourage Self ReflectionStudents who are self directed and reflective are more likely to be retained.

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Student Peer MentorsEmpower students to facilitate discussions, monitor participation, peer review work, help other students with technical questions.