12 practices for online learner retention and college completion, with rankings of their effectiveness

In online classes this fall, many course providers are keeping a close eye on student retention and college completion. Below are 12 practices for online learner retention and degree completion, with rankings of their effectiveness, based on a May 2015 poll of undergraduate campus officials. Findings are shown separately for respondents from four-year public institutions, four-year private institutions, and two-year public institutions.

Four-year public institutions

Four-year private institutions

Two-year public institutions

Across sectors, mandatory faculty training and mandatory academic advising emerged as the most effective practices for retaining online learners. Also effective was “faculty development and support in online technology and online teaching pedagogy.”

See the complete findings of the May 2015 poll in the 2015 Student Retention and College Completion Practices Report from Ruffalo Noel Levitz.

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Find help through our online learner services, call us at 800.876.1117, or email us.  Ruffalo Noel Levitz can help your institution develop or expand its online programs by connecting you with experienced consultants, assessment tools, and relevant research to accomplish your goals.