Significant determinants of student retention and efficient engagement strategies in LMOOCs

Abstract

This article provides evidence of critical factors of student retention in Language Massive Open Online Courses (LMOOCs). The study used multiple sources: tracked retention data (n=43,000), survey data in correlation with tracking data (n=400), and qualitative data (174 informants) from a survey (Friðriksdóttir, 2018, 2021a, 2021b). The data came from learners in seven courses and across different delivery modes in the LMOOC program Icelandic Online (IOL, https://icelandiconline.com). First, analysis of the tracking data revealed low overall completion rates and that retention was highest in the blended mode of delivery. The analysis also uncovered a specific dropout pattern and pattern of user engagement. Second, the survey study identified six content-related and four tutor-related engagement factors and that learners’ differing goals for course participation influenced retention. Finally, qualitative data analysis revealed intrinsic and extrinsic motivational factors responsible for course completion, whereas non-course-related factors affected retention among dropouts. Overall, the study identified multi-ranged determinants of student retention.