Factors Contributing to High Dropout of Distance Learners at The Institute of Adult Education in Rukwa Region.

Mkumbwa, Simon (2025) Factors Contributing to High Dropout of Distance Learners at The Institute of Adult Education in Rukwa Region. Masters thesis, The Open University of Tanzania.

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Abstract

This study addressed the main research question, which was, the factors contributing to dropout rates among students participating in open and distance learning at the Sumbawanga Institute of Adult Education? The sample size employed was 142 respondents, with 134 selected using convenience and purposive sampling. Data collection methods included questionnaires for quantitative data and interviews for qualitative data analyzed by SPSS and thematic analysis respectively. The findings from objective one showed that economic challenges and other responsibilities are a primary reason for dropping out, it is recommended that Government should now consider giving these learners loans so as deal with economic challenges. The objective two indicated that some learners dropped because of the long distance to the study Centre and poor internet connection in some areas, here it is recommended that the Institute of Adult Education should establish more learning centres near learners working areas. And the Third objective revealed that some learners dropped because they lacked information about Learning through Open and Distance Learning often occurring soon after registration or the initial face-to-face instruction period, here it is recommended that there is a need to provide comprehensive orientation programs focused on financial management to help learners meet their financial obligations and successfully complete their studies. Since the study was done for IAE there is need to conduct other studies to explore dropout trends in other ODL institutions for comparative analysis. Keyword: Open and Distance Learning, Dropout, Poverty, Sumbawanga Institute of Adult Education

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