Distance Learners' Dropout Behaviors: The Case of Anadolu University Open Education Faculty

Abstract

Within the scope of this study, it is aimed to examine the dropout status of learners enrolled in Anadolu University Open Education Faculty during the 2018-2019 and 2019-2020 academic years. For this purpose,  a descriptive research method was used to describe the current situation. The findings obtained within the scope of this study were examined; It provides information about variables such as enrollment type, program type, education period in which they dropped out their education, gender, and the exam centers they are affiliated with. According to this, the dropout behavior of the learners who enrolled in the open education faculty with the higher education institutions exam is higher than the others. Another result is that the dropout learners are mostly enrolled in the business program. This situation is followed by the Political Science and Public Administration, Paralegal Studies, Theology, Social Services, International Relations, Sociology and Economics Programs. One of the striking results of the study is that the number of dropout learners is higher in the spring semester within all variables. In addition, males exhibited more dropout behaviors than females. Based on findings, suggestions for reducing dropout rates of education are listed.