Student dropout from foundation program at modern college of business & science, Sultanate of Oman

Abstract

Main reasons for student dropout from higher education may be low academic performance, poor socialization skills, low confidence levels, busy social life and financial issues. As students’ dropout from higher education has been rising, there is a need to understand this problem for finding suitable solutions. Research objectives for this institutional research are to explore patterns in dropout data at Foundation program, establish criteria for identifying students at-risk of dropout and identify areas of improvement for reducing dropout rate, as the dropout problem is high at Foundation level of the college. Research methodology includes application of exploratory study based on analysis of secondary data pertaining to 22 semesters, Spring 2012 to Summer-I 2017. Findings revealed that 1966 students dropped out from Foundation program during the study period with an average of 94 students per semester. Dropout rate was higher among males and was more at Levels I and IV. Though dropout happened in Foundation, academic departments would also experience major loss, as Foundation is the ‘feeder program’ for other bachelor’s programs. It is recommended to have a dropout process flow-chart not only to understand the exit journey of dropping students, but also to reverse the journey. It is recommended to set up a dropout committee, design an early warning system for creating alerts and bifurcate Foundation department into Language sub-department and Technical sub-department (Math and IT courses). It is further recommended to have an effective data management system that would enable administration to reduce dropout rates and create a ‘feel good’ environment for the students.