Satisfaction with the institution as a predictor of the intention to drop out in online higher education

Abstract

AbstractEnrollment in online higher education (OHE) programs has witnessed a substantial increase, owing to the benefits and added value it offers students. However, one of the main challenges in this educational modality is attrition. While research on attrition in online settings is plentiful, studies on student satisfaction with higher education institutions (HEIs) in these settings are still nascent. Therefore, this article aimed to assess the impact of student satisfaction with HEIs on their intention to drop out in the OHE environment, seeking to identify specific constructs that influence student satisfaction in this educational modality. To achieve this, a partial least squares structural equation modeling was employed to examine the relationship between satisfaction with the institution and the intention to drop out. The model was parameterized using data from a sample of 524 participants across the 32 departments of Colombia. The study revealed that satisfaction with various aspects of OHE variably affects overall satisfaction with the HEI and the intention to drop out. Despite significant effect sizes, the lack of statistical significance in certain areas suggests further research. These findings are crucial for developing strategies to improve the educational experience and reduce attrition in OHE.

Keywords

• Satisfaction
• attrition
• virtual learning
• higher education
• higher education institutions
• Stephen Darwin, Universidad Alberto Hurtado, Chile [email protected]