The reasons for dropping out are complex. There is no simple explanation and no one simple initiative that will address the issue. Factors such as motivation, capabilities and suitability are all involved. There must also be a balance between completion rates on programmes and maintaining the necessary, objective standards. The challenge of maximising completion rates, consistent with maintaining appropriate standards is a matter, in the first instance, for individual universities, institutes of technology and the National Council for Educational Awards.
On the university sector, the Higher Education Authority carried out a study in 1994, which indicated a completion rate of 81 per cent, which is high by international standards, for those entering in 1989-90. The authority has commissioned the Educational Research Centre, St. Patrick's College, Drumcondra to undertake a further detailed study in this area and a report should be available by the end of 1999.
A number of initiatives have been taken in the technological sector to assist the compilation of a data base on attrition-drop out rates and to develop appropriate strategies to address the issues. The Council of Directors of the Institutes of Technology has established a national committee on retention with representatives from each institute to focus on "maximising success rates" for institutes' students. The committee is currently assembling a profile of current good practice in relation to retention across the sector. The profile will be made available to all institutes of technology.
Institutes of technology have introduced a range of initiatives and support services seeking to improve completion rates. These include induction/orientation programmes, course information services, tutor services and systems designed for the early identification of "at risk" first year students.