The Journal of Educators Online · 2007 · 432 citations · 16 references
EducationHigher EducationTeachingDistance EducationE-learningStudent EngagementDistance LearningEngagement In Online LearningOnline CollaborationOnline InstructionOnline LearningOnline Student EngagementDistance Higher EducationEngagement In Online ClassroomsIntegrative Literature ReviewLearner EngagementOnline PedagogyOnline Student Retention
Attrition remains a major issue in higher education, with distance‑education classes experiencing 10–20% higher rates than face‑to‑face courses. The study aims to guide educators in engaging students early and often through customized strategies, fostering relationships and collaborative learning to reduce attrition. The authors conduct an integrative literature review to synthesize key concepts and engagement methods for online learning that aim to enhance learning and lower attrition.
Attrition continues to be a major issue in higher education. Attrition rates for classes taught through distance education are 10 – 20% higher than classes taught in a face-to-face setting. Educators should engage students early and often, using different learning strategies customized to the class content and the students’ pre-existing knowledge. The goal for the professor is to develop relationships with the students such that they feel comfortable in the environment. The professor should facilitate learner-learner integration and collaboration so that they will learn from one another and expand their knowledge base together. Through an integrative literature review, this article presents key concepts in online learning and a review of different methods of engaging students with the goals of enhancing the learning process and reducing attrition rates.
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