Components of Student Support in Blended and Online Learning

Abstract

For every student cohort that registers for an online program, some will persist through to graduation while a good number will drop out. Studies continue to investigate the phenomena of persistence and dropout without consensus to the solution. However, student support has been shown to impact positively on a student's decision to stay for the duration of the program. Students of online/blended learning formats lack the advantage of socio-physical motivation. Therefore, they require support that constantly reassures them of peers, teachers, and university presence throughout the duration of the program. At every stage in the life of the program, the student will require specific support which are herein referred to as components of student support. They include student support during recruitment, registration procedures, registration requirements, orientation, study skills training, technology, learning materials, counselling and mentorship, communication and interactions, feedback, regional centers, library, students' association, and representation.