Influence of learner support services on learners’ retention in bachelor of education students by open, distance and electronic learning in Kisii campus, Mount Kenya University

Abstract

This study examined the influence of learner support services on learners’ retention in bachelor of education students by open, distance and electronic learning. The study targeted two hundred undergraduate students in Kisii Campus, Mount Kenya University. The participants were identified through stratified random sampling. The project involved the use of research survey design that included quantitative design. Stratified random sampling was used to identify the participants. The project required the use of questionnaires as a research instrument. Before beginning the survey, a pilot study was administered on a selected group of the target population to determine the reliability of the instrument. When data was collected, it was analyzed by the use of descriptive statistical analyses. Responses from the participants revealed that provision of learner support services is a sure way of retaining learners and ensuring maximum completion rate in open, distance and electronic institutions. The study recommends that, all Open, Distance and Electronic Learning institutions should have a functional and effective learner support service departments. This study suggests that further study should be done on how learner support services can be used as a retention strategy by institutions that offer Open, Distance and Electronic Learning.