Pilot Testing for Feasibility in a Study of Student Retention and Attrition in Online Undergraduate Programs
Author(s)
Fraser, Joy; Athabasca UniversityFahlman, Dorothy (Willy); Athabasca University
Arscott, Jane; Athabasca University
Guillot, Isabelle
Contributor(s)
Athabasca University Mission Critical Research FundKeywords
Online Learning; Health Administration; Human Servicepilot testing, feasibility study, attrition, retention, model, health administration, human service, online, undergraduate, students, distance education
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http://www.irrodl.org/index.php/irrodl/article/view/3326Abstract
Prior to undertaking a descriptive study on attrition and retention of students in two online undergraduate health administration and human service programs, a pilot test was conducted to assess the procedures for participant recruitment, usability of the survey questionnaire, and data collection processes. A retention model provided the conceptual framework for this investigation to identify and organize various factors that influenced students’ decisions to either discontinue or continue their educational programs. In an attempt to contribute to the body of research in this area and to enrich pedagogical practices, the authors describe the pilot testing processes and feasibility issues explored, and the improvements made to the instrument and methodology before commencing the main research study on attrition and retention.Date
2018-02-23Type
info:eu-repo/semantics/articleIdentifier
oai:www.irrodl.org:article/3326http://www.irrodl.org/index.php/irrodl/article/view/3326
10.19173/irrodl.v19i1.3326