Improving Undergraduate Online Retention through Gated Advisement and Redundant Communication

Abstract

The University of West Georgia implemented a successful research-based initiative, Project DEW (Developing eCore Winners) to improve retention in its eCore courses. eCore courses are those offered through a collaborative University System of Georgia program, and includes courses required to complete the first two years of an undergraduate degree. eCore courses are taught entirely online, except for the required proctored exam. This article highlights the results of a telephone survey conducted to determine the causes of eCore attrition, and the retention improvement data following the implementation of a comprehensive orientation and advisement program and redundant communications to students.