ERIC Number: EJ746212
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2007-Feb
Pages: 20
Abstractor: Author
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0360-1315
EISSN: N/A
Comparing Dropouts and Persistence in E-Learning Courses
Levy, Yair
Computers and Education, v48 n2 p185-204 Feb 2007
Several studies have been conducted related to dropouts from on-campus and distance education courses. However, no clear definition of dropout from academic courses was provided. Consequently, this study proposes a clear and precise definition of dropout from academic courses in the context of e-learning courses. Additionally, it is documented in literature that students attending e-learning courses dropout at substantially higher rates than their counterparts in on-campus courses. Little attention has been given to the key factors associated with such substantial difference. This study explores two main constructs: (1) academic locus of control; and, (2) students' satisfaction with e-learning. Results show that students' satisfaction with e-learning is a key indicator in students' decision to dropout from e-learning courses. Moreover, dropout students (non-completers) reported to have significantly lower satisfaction with e-learning than students who successfully completed (completers or persistent students) the same e-learning courses. Additionally, results of this study show that the academic locus of control appears to have no impact on students' decision to drop from e-learning courses.
Descriptors: Dropouts, Distance Education, Comparative Analysis, Locus of Control, Participant Satisfaction, Academic Persistence, Online Courses, Dropout Research, School Holding Power, Literature Reviews, Performance Factors, Student Surveys
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Evaluative
Education Level: Higher Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A