Introduction
Open education and online learning have become increasingly popular in recent years, driven by advances in technology and a growing recognition of the benefits of flexible and accessible learning. However, as the field continues to evolve, it is essential to examine the evidence on the impact of open education on student retention. This article provides a review of the research on this topic, highlighting the key findings and implications for educators and policymakers.
The Benefits of Open Education
Open education, which encompasses a range of approaches including open educational resources (OER), massive open online courses (MOOCs), and online degree programs, offers several benefits for students, including increased flexibility, reduced costs, and greater access to high-quality learning materials. These benefits can be particularly important for students who face barriers to traditional education, such as those with disabilities, working professionals, or individuals from low-income backgrounds.
The Impact of Open Education on Student Retention
Research on the impact of open education on student retention has yielded mixed results. Some studies have found that students who engage with open education resources and online courses tend to have higher rates of completion and retention compared to their traditional counterparts. For example, a study of OER adoption in the United States found that students who used OER had higher grades and a higher rate of completion compared to students who used traditional textbooks (Baker et al., 2017).
However, other studies have raised concerns about the quality and effectiveness of open education resources, as well as the lack of support and engagement from instructors and peers (Means et al., 2010). These findings highlight the need for further research on the effectiveness of open education and the development of strategies to support student success in online learning environments.
Strategies for Improving Student Retention in Open Education
Despite the challenges, there are several strategies that educators and institutions can employ to improve student retention in open education. These include:
- Providing high-quality and engaging learning materials and resources
- Offering regular and timely support and feedback to students
- Fostering a sense of community and connection among students and instructors
- Using data and analytics to track student progress and identify areas for improvement
Conclusion
Open education and online learning offer a range of benefits for students, including increased flexibility, reduced costs, and greater access to high-quality learning materials. However, the impact of open education on student retention is complex and multifaceted, and more research is needed to fully understand the effects of open education on student success. By examining the evidence and implementing strategies to support student success, educators and institutions can help to improve student retention and outcomes in open education.