Understanding the Puzzle of Persistence and Learner Behavior of Online Undergraduate Students: what do the patterns tell us? How can we move the needle of student success?
Abstract: Understanding the complex puzzle of student persistence in online programs is not simple. Often the students who take part in online programs are non-traditional students who come to these programs with additional external factors that can put them at higher risk for attrition. These students are often part-time students who are simultaneously juggling other commitments such as being a caregiver and/or employment. This case study will focus on the key areas of the persistence and student success within the lens of online education. A program evaluation cycle will be reviewed and details explored within the context of using data analysis to drive goals, strategies and actions. Ultimately, a model of student persistence for online students will be presented with recommendations for staff, administrators, and advisors that focus on performance indicators identified within the model.
Presider: Florian Schimanke, HSW - University of Applied Sciences