We examine the mechanisms explaining the dropout intentions of students with disabilities by integrating Tinto's model of student integration, the student attrition model, the composite persistence model, and insights from social stratification research. The resulting theoretical model posits that not only students' academic and social…

Based on the classic models developed by Spady and Tinto on the link between social and academic integration and dropout, we propose a refined model to explain dropout intentions--relating to dropout from higher education (HE) and dropout from a specific study programme--that more strongly emphasises individual background characteristics (e.g.…

Course dropout is a concern in online higher education, mainly in first-year courses when different factors negatively influence the learners' engagement leading to an unsuccessful outcome or even dropping out from the university. The early identification of such potential at-risk learners is the key to intervening and trying to help them before…

University dropout is a phenomenon of growing interest due to the high financial costs that it involves for both families and states. Various variables have been studied in order to understand why this problem occurs. Satisfaction with the degree choice, study self-regulation and social adaptation within the university are some of the variables…

Dropout rates in higher education (HE) are particularly high for non-traditional students which may be due to unadjusted educational policies. Considering as non-traditional the students who are employed at the enrolment moment and using a longitudinal database containing information on 5351 students from a Portuguese HE institution, an event…

Young adult carers are four times more likely than other students to drop out of higher education and are amongst the under-represented and disadvantaged groups targeted in the National Strategy for Access and Student Success in Higher Education in the UK. Non-completion of studies has implications not just for the individuals themselves, but also…

Student attrition continues to be a significant and costly challenge for higher education institutions across the globe. In Australia, universities cite the importance of addressing student attrition through strategic statements and policy documents, and expend time and resources on the problem. Despite vast expenditures, they have made little…

This dissertation encompasses three chapters that study the Brazilian higher educational system and determines the barriers to acquiring higher education in the country. Below are the individual abstracts for each chapter. Chapter 1: "Rural and urban schools' performance in Brazil and its impact on access to higher education". Recent…

If the State of Ohio is to grow and prosper, it must raise the education level of its population. The goal of this 10-year strategic plan is to raise the educational attainment of the state each year, and to close the gap between Ohio and competitor states and nations. To accomplish this goal, stakeholders must do three things: (1) Graduate more…

If the State of Ohio is to grow and prosper, it must raise the education level of its population. The goal of this 10-year strategic plan is to raise the educational attainment of the state each year, and to close the gap between Ohio and competitor states and nations. To accomplish this goal stakeholders must do three things: (1) Graduate more…

Students with disabilities are increasingly enrolled in postsecondary education, yet many of them are not prepared to cope with the rigor of higher education. Students who do not have the skills of self-empowerment often experience frustration and discouragement in the postsecondary setting, leading to their dropping out of school and eventually…

The United States is losing high-paying jobs to countries that produce a more reliable supply of college graduates in math and science. Texas faces its own economic slowdown if it is unable to graduate more students with bachelor's degrees. The state has been addressing many of the obstacles students face in earning a four-year degree. Outreach…