THE LEARNER SUPPORT PROGRAMS: HOW DOES IT WORK FOR INCREASING STUDENTS’ RETENTION?

Abstract

Universitas Terbuka in Indonesia is a pioneer in distance learning that offers a comprehensive learning support programs to improve students’ retention. Assignment workshops and exam clinics provide valuable guidance and support for students to help them overcome academic challenges and achieve their educational goals. Moving forward, continued investment in such support services is essential for promoting students’ retention and fostering a positive learning environment. This paper discusses how do learner support programs implemented by Universitas Terbuka (UT) enhance student retention. The programs include distance learning skill workshops, assignment workshops, and exam clinics. The programs are aimed to provide academic assistance and guidance for supporting students’ independent study. The study employes a qualitative research method involving questionnaires and in-depth interviews. To support the research, some students taking Bachelor of English Education Study Program were involved as key participants. The results indicate that learner support programs have a positive impact on student academic success and student retention; students more confidence during their study, increasing their technology literacy skills, and enhancing their independence. From this study, it can be drawn that learner support programs employed by UT are strategically important to maintain student satisfaction, support student success, and their retention.