Learner interrupted: understanding the stories behind the codes – a qualitative analysis of HE distance-learner withdrawals

Successful retention of students through understanding their motivations and behaviours is a challenge to universities worldwide. Whilst the impact withdrawals an issue for all institutions, attrition distance-learning providers particularly problematic owing higher non-completion rates, less physical visibility, because distance-learners tend have more complex lives. This paper examines students’ personal stories explaining decisions withdraw from university study. It considers 641 written discourses initiated by as part requests withdraw, covering challenges they face, combinations factors that contribute give up. qualitative approach was adopted necessary complement quantitative rush metrics information now provide on withdrawal figures. Three themes selected are: deferral/withdrawal, time available, preparedness The concludes complementary insights both add clarity detail institutional reduces oversimplification decision-making unidimensional approaches.