The extent of and reasons for non re-enrolment: A case of Korea National Open University

Authors

  • Hyoseon Choi Korea National Open University
  • Yekyung Lee Sogang University
  • Insung Jung International Christian University
  • Colin Latchem open and distance learning consultant

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.19173/irrodl.v14i4.1314

Keywords:

causes of drop-out, distance learner, drop-out, drop-out rates, non re-enrolment

Abstract

Despite continuous efforts to increase retention, dropout rates are high in distance universities. The objectives of this study were: 1) to investigate the extent and causes of non re-enrollment at a mega university, Korea National Open University; and 2) to suggest actions to improve the retention of students, in general, and those with higher risks of dropout in particular. A survey designed to establish the student demographics and the students’ main reasons for non re-enrollment was carried out during spring, 2009 with 1,353 respondents. The results indicate that a lack of feedback from the instructors, heavy workload, and difficulties in studying at a distance were the main reasons for non re-enrollment. The learners’ perceptions of the value of the degrees and their ages, gender, and educational backgrounds were also found to be significant factors in decisions not to re-enroll. The suggested solutions for reducing non re-enrollment include: a decrease in the number of required credit hours’ study per semester; the provision of stronger social support; the introduction of a more flexible enrollment system; and better use of the available technology and infrastructure to help both students and instructors build stronger learning communities.

Author Biographies

Hyoseon Choi, Korea National Open University

Research, Institute of Distance Education, Korea National Open University

Yekyung Lee, Sogang University

Assistant Professor at the Graduate School of Education, Sogang University, Korea.

Insung Jung, International Christian University

Professor at the Education, Media and Society, International Christian University, Tokyo

Colin Latchem, open and distance learning consultant

open and distance learning consultant, researcher, and writer

Published

2013-08-28

How to Cite

Choi, H., Lee, Y., Jung, I., & Latchem, C. (2013). The extent of and reasons for non re-enrolment: A case of Korea National Open University. The International Review of Research in Open and Distributed Learning, 14(4). https://doi.org/10.19173/irrodl.v14i4.1314

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