The nexus of student dropout: insights from course directors in Portuguese higher education amidst the COVID-19 pandemic
Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: This paper investigates the perceptions of 18 course directors on student dropout in Portuguese higher education institutions (HEIs), especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Using a qualitative approach, through content analysis of semi-structured interviews, the study explores the reasons behind student dropout from the unique perspective of course directors. The research identifies key dropout factors, including pre-entry unpreparedness, socio-economic challenges, and in-study issues like financial strain, work-study balance, and programme intensity, especially in master’s courses. Internal factors, such as managing workload and expectation-reality mismatches, also play a role. The COVID-19 pandemic added complexities, with online learning disruptions and psychological strain altering the higher education landscape, though views on its direct impact on dropout rates vary. Some course directors regarded these changes as direct contributors to increased dropout rates, while others considered them as intensifiers of already existing issues. HEIs could reduce dropout by offering preparatory courses, targeted support for diverse backgrounds, expanded financial support, flexible scheduling, and fostering an inclusive campus with mentorship and mental health resources to support student integration and retention.
Institutions: Universidade Lusófona, University of Minho
Language: English
Subfield: Demography
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
SDG: Quality education
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W4405914780