EXPLORING KEY FACTORS AFFECTING STUDENT RETENTION IN A DISTANCE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT: A STUDY AT UNIVERSITAS TERBUKA MAKASSAR

Abstract

Abstract

Distance education students face a range of challenges, including isolation, ineffective time management, the need for self-motivation, and independent learning skills, such as planning, initiative, and intrinsic motivation. These challenges directly affect student retention—the ability to persist and complete their studies—which remains a critical issue in higher education, particularly in distance learning settings. This study aims to analyze the factors influencing student retention at Universitas Terbuka Makassar, focusing on students identified as at risk of academic withdrawal. A quantitative approach was employed using a survey method with 200 active students selected through purposive sampling. Data were analyzed using multiple linear regression. The results indicate that academic, social, institutional, motivational, and external factors significantly affect student retention, with an Adjusted R Square value of 0.704. This suggests that the five variables collectively explain 70.4% of the variation in student retention. The F-test confirms the model’s overall significance (p < 0.05). The findings offer strategic recommendations for Universitas Terbuka Makassar, including strengthening technology-based learning systems, enhancing the quality of academic advising, and fostering an inclusive learning community to support student success and promote sustained engagement in distance education.

Keywords: student retention, distance education, academic support, learning motivation