Factors Related to E-learner Dropout: Case Study of IUST Elearning Center

Dropout rate between 20 to 80 percent has been reported in e-learning, so decreasing dropout rate is one of the major challenges of e-learning systems. The aim of this study is to identify the theories that explain the success rate of elearners. We used a quantitative content analysis by reviewing the findings of 24 major studies in this field. Findings revealed that motivational theories(f:13); self-regulated learning(f:6) and interaction(f:5) are the most important explanatory theories for elearner success. Results from 223 elearner at IUST elearning center showed that there are relationship between self-regulation and elearner dropout, in addition the results of t-test revealed that persistence elearner (M=3.50,SD=.66) had significantly high self-regulatory score than the dropout group (M=3.24,SD=.80), t=-2.54(221),p=.01.