LearnTechLib Digital Library

Online Student Retention: Can It Be Done?

, Wright State University, United States

EdMedia + Innovate Learning, in Denver, Colorado, USA ISBN 978-1-880094-45-7 Publisher: Association for the Advancement of Computing in Education (AACE), Waynesville, NC

Record type: PROCEEDINGS

Abstract

Abstract: Retention has been indicated as one of the greatest weaknesses in online instruction. While a preponderance of literature about online instruction is available, concrete ideas about how to retain students are lacking. A DHHS grant for over $1 million dollars has made it possible for us to provide an Internet option enabling registered nurses to obtain a bachelor's degree. Now in the third year of the program, we have maintained an excellent retention rate ranging from 85 to 93%. Factors found to positively influence retention included: enhancing the comfort level of students with the technology, creating a sensitive online faculty persona generating trust in the environment, and addressing safety and security needs to support highly interactive experiences. These strategies promoted the development of relationships with "classroom" colleagues and fostered linkages necessary for students to remain connected to the learning experiences and continue to degree completion.

Citation

O'Brien, B. (2002). Online Student Retention: Can It Be Done?. In P. Barker & S. Rebelsky (Eds.), Proceedings of ED-MEDIA 2002--World Conference on Educational Multimedia, Hypermedia & Telecommunications (pp. 1479-1483). Denver, Colorado, USA: Association for the Advancement of Computing in Education (AACE). Retrieved March 19, 2024 from .

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