Identifying Reasons That Contribute to Dropout Rates in Open and Distance Learning

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.19173/irrodl.v26i2.8067

Keywords:

dropout, student retention, open education, distance education, open and distance learning, online learning, higher education, Sri Lanka

Abstract

This study examined the reasons for high dropout numbers in programs offered through open and distance education (ODE). A mixed method approach was employed to collect data from a purposive sample of instructors and students at the Open University of Sri Lanka. A total of 38 reasons were revealed, of which aligned with existing dropout models as well as a few country- and institute-specific reasons. Results indicated that internal and external reasons mainly influenced students to drop out; student characteristics and skills also contributed to the students’ decision. The most influential reasons were job and family commitment, workload, time management, and flexibility, indicating that employed students were the more severely affected fraction of the dropout population. The researchers attempted to create a holistic picture of the dropout phenomenon in ODE, providing a foundation for policymakers and educators to implement targeted interventions and individualized support mechanisms to foster student retention.

Author Biographies

Kokila Ranasinghe, Department of Chemistry, The Open University of Sri Lanka, Nugegoda, Sri Lanka

Kokila Ranasinghe is a senior lecturer in the Department of Chemistry at the Open University of Sri Lanka. She is interested in ODL Practitioner research in addition to her primary research area, the development of novel metal complexes of biological relevance.

T. Lakshini D. Fernando, Department of Chemistry, The Open University of Sri Lanka, Nugegoda, Sri Lanka

Lakshini Fernando is a senior lecturer in the Department of Chemistry at the Open University of Sri Lanka. She is interested in ODL Practitioner research in addition to her primary research area, the development of green composites and polymeric materials.

Nimali Vineeshiya, Department of Social Studies, The Open University of Sri Lanka, Nugegoda, Sri Lanka

Nimali Vineeshiya is a Senior Lecturer in Social Studies at the Open University of Sri Lanka. She is interested in ODL Practitioner research and specializes in Environmental Sociology, Development Sociology, Gender and Sexuality Studies, and Social Psychology.

Aras Bozkurt, Department of Distance Education, Anadolu University, Eskişehir, Türkiye & Department of Social Sciences, Western Caspian University, Azerbaijan

Aras Bozkurt is a researcher and faculty member at Anadolu University, Türkiye. With MA and PhD degrees in distance education, Dr. Bozkurt's work focuses on empirical studies in areas such as distance education, online learning, networked learning, and educational technology.

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Published

2025-05-08

How to Cite

Ranasinghe, K., Fernando, T. L. D., Vineeshiya, N., & Bozkurt, A. (2025). Identifying Reasons That Contribute to Dropout Rates in Open and Distance Learning . The International Review of Research in Open and Distributed Learning, 26(2), 162–183. https://doi.org/10.19173/irrodl.v26i2.8067

Issue

Vol. 26 No. 2 (2025)

Section

Research Articles

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