Factors that Contribute to Students' Attrition in Open and Distance Learning (ODL) Environment: A systematic review

Muhammad Abdul Aziz Nur Izzuddin Izham; Nora'ayu Ahmad Uzir; Nursalsabilla Anuar; Irni Eliana Khairuddin

doi:10.21834/ebpj.v7iSI10.4136

Authors

Muhammad Abdul Aziz Nur Izzuddin Izham Faculty of Information Management, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Selangor Branch, Malaysia
Nora'ayu Ahmad Uzir Faculty of Information Management, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Selangor Branch, Malaysia
Nursalsabilla Anuar Faculty of Information Management, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Selangor Branch, Malaysia
Irni Eliana Khairuddin Faculty of Information Management, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Selangor Branch, Malaysia; Cottrich Marketing Sdn. Bhd. Selangor, Malaysia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21834/ebpj.v7iSI10.4136

Keywords:

Open Distance Learning, Student Attrition, COVID-19

Abstract

This paper presents a systematic literature review of open distance learning (ODL) research that reports empirical findings on the factors that contribute to students' attrition in the ODL setting. Several prior literature reviews identified self-regulated learning as one of the critical factors that may lead to students dropping out. However, there has been much less understanding of the factors and challenges faced by the students in ODL learning and delivery, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic years. To address this limitation, this study provides a step toward a better understanding of the critical factors contributing to dropout risk, particularly in the ODL environment.

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