Our final project report STOP dem DROPOUT [STOP DROPOUT], funded by the B&C Private Foundation, has just been published.

Project management

• ao.Univ.-Prof. Dr. Erna Nairz-Wirth

Project team

• Univ.-Prof. Dr. Klaus Feldmann

• ao. Univ.-Prof. Dr. Erna Nairz-Wirth

• Christian Gehart, MSc (WU)

 Download Project Report

Abstract

High-quality higher education is a crucial prerequisite for economic growth, labor market development, preventing skills shortages, economic and social innovation, and political stability. High dropout rates are associated with high costs from both an individual and an economic perspective. The diversity of the student population has increased significantly, not least due to the growing number of students who come from families with no university experience, are in employment, or do not enter university within two years of obtaining their university entrance qualification. It is precisely these so-called non-traditional students who have a significantly higher risk of dropping out.

Universities are trying out various measures to counteract dropouts and extended study times. This report offers options and suggestions for such problem solutions and organizational innovations. Based on theoretical concepts and extensive literature research, the design principles, types, and categorizations of measures that can prevent dropouts and promote academic success are identified. Internationally tested measures include outreach programs (cooperation between universities and schools), summer courses, transition programs, mentoring, tutoring, learning communities, service learning, and research orientation in the first phase of study.

In addition, 51 best practice measures from universities and colleges in the US, Australia, and Europe are described in detail, uniformly documented, and scientifically tested, which are also suitable for implementation at Austrian universities. A special focus was also placed on STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) subjects.

Experience at successful universities shows that tried-and-tested, evaluated measures that are implemented as early as possible, i.e., in some cases even before the start of studies, significantly improve the chances of successful graduation, especially for those students who are particularly at risk of dropping out, and are also economically and socially beneficial for universities and society.

Keywords: dropout, discontinuation of studies, change of study program, non-traditional students, STEM, prevention, intervention, best practice.

Further key research reports from the Education Sciences Group