Implementing Comprehensive Interventions to Support Student Success in Online Learning

The innovation and maturity of education technology has enabled online learning to be more accessible and manageable than ever before. Online education becomes so appealing as programs of study can be pursued with the flexibility in time and space. However, the most pressing challenge posed is student attrition that has significant quality and economic impacts on online institutions. In response to the negative influences brought by high dropout rates, educational institutions have striven to implement strategies to improve students? learning experiences and assist them in successfully achieving their academic goals. The goal of this paper is to examine institutional practices, resources, strategies that are needed to ensure sustainability in the online education. This paper first reviews Tinto?s student integration model as the theoretical framework. This paper presents a survey of literature to highlight significant factors that lead to students? decision on withdrawal from a course or program. This paper also summarizes an assortment of evidence-based practices in relation to student retention. Finally, a case study is presented to examine the implementation of interventions in an online university. Student persistence is a vital part of the institution?s survival. A continuing monitoring and evaluation system plays a key role in improved student satisfaction and success.