Dropout: a relevant issue in the contemporary context
OPI PIB’s earlier findings demonstrate that between 2012 and 2020 as many as 40% of students in Poland dropped out and did not resume the same programmes [1]. Such decisions are driven by a variety of factors, including personal and financial circumstances, and issues related to the organisation of studies and the functioning of higher education institutions.
In recent years, various social, economic and technological changes have emerged, which might have impacted students’ experiences and the measures taken by HEIs. It is therefore crucial to apply up-to-date knowledge to better understand and prevent dropout.
Conduct of the study
The first stage of the study included a survey conducted among HEI representatives which focused on dropout monitoring methods, identification of dropout causes from the institutional perspective, and actions implemented to reduce dropout rates. The study also explored the challenges and needs of HEIs in this field.
The study is now entering a stage that includes a qualitative study involving students who discontinued their studies. This stage will include both individual in-depth interviews with foreigners and group interviews. This will help better understand students’ motivations, decision-making contexts, and their future educational and career paths.
International students interested in participating in the study are invited to register by clicking on the link below:
https://lime.openfield.pl/index.php?r=survey/index&sid=159258&lang=pl
This stage of the study is conducted with support from Openfield.
OPI PIB’s findings to support HEIs in Poland
The study results will support workshops with HEI representatives aimed at formulating recommendations and strategies to reduce dropout rates.
The study will conclude with a report presenting an analysis of the scale and drivers of dropout at HEIs in Poland, a description of early dropout causes, and the future of educational and career paths of those who discontinued their studies. In addition, the report will include recommendations for necessary institutional and systemic measures. We hope the findings will serve as a useful resource for HEIs in strengthening student success and reducing dropout rates.
For more information on the qualitative study, please contact the Openfield coordinator Oliwia Mazan at oliwia.mazan@openfield.pl.
Should you have any questions regarding the project, please contact the OPI PIB’s research team at labstat@opi.org.pl.
[1] „Zjawisko drop-outu na polskich uczelniach”, OPI PIB, 2020
Note: students who pursued multiple programmes, whether concurrently or consecutively, were counted multiple times as separate individuals.