Discover methods to reduce student dropout – how to keep students at university?

The phenomenon of “drop-out”, meaning students discontinuing their studies before graduation, is becoming an increasingly serious problem for higher education institutions in Poland. To help combat this issue, the polish National Centre for Research and Development (NCBR) has announced a competition: “Effective university management to minimize the drop-out phenomenon.” This is a great opportunity to obtain funding for projects that effectively reduce student attrition.

What actions should be included in an application to increase the chances of receiving support? Here are a few tips that can help in preparing an effective proposal.

Discover Methods to Reduce Student Dropout – How to Keep Students at University? image

What activities can be funded?

According to the NCBR competition documentation, funding may cover the implementation of activities such as:

Increasing the efficiency of the recruitment process,
Creating or supporting the functioning of structures that support students (e.g. career offices),
Changes in the implementation of the education process (e.g. distance or hybrid learning),
Implementing remedial classes, psychological support, and financial assistance,
Creating or developing a system for monitoring the phenomenon of drop-out at the university.

Although these goals seem clear, the key to success is conducting a thorough analysis of the problem and developing coherent, specific solutions.

Key challenges for applicants

Effective analysis of the drop-out phenomenon – It is important to identify the main reasons for students dropping out. Various factors should be taken into account, such as students’ financial problems, adaptation difficulties, or teaching methods not being suited to students’ needs.
Defining effective actions – It is necessary to propose concrete solutions that address the challenges identified during the analysis. It is worth investing in modern teaching methods that increase student engagement and contribute to reducing the number of drop-outs.

How to conduct an analysis of the drop-out phenomenon?

Conducting a solid analysis requires collecting data and opinions. You can:

Conduct surveys among students to understand what lies behind their decisions to drop out of studies,
Analyze financial data – Are economic factors, such as tuition fees, an important reason for dropping out?
Talk to lecturers and university staff to understand what difficulties students encounter during their studies.

Application of Business Simulation as a solution

Business simulations are an innovative tool that perfectly aligns with activities aimed at reducing the drop-out phenomenon. Introducing simulations into the curriculum activates students by allowing them to apply their knowledge in practice. Simulations develop key skills such as cooperation, communication, creativity, and critical thinking. Moreover, 88% of lecturers who used business simulations in their classes confirm that they increase student engagement and result in better knowledge retention.

Simulations allow students to run virtual companies, teaching them not only theory but also practical skills that are essential on the job market. Additionally, they enable monitoring of students’ progress, which is helpful in the process of assessment and supporting their development.

Benefits of introducing simulations at the university

Business simulations not only increase student engagement but also improve the quality of teaching. Thanks to them, students can see the direct effects of their decisions, which positively influences their motivation and learning effectiveness. Integrated applications for monitoring progress allow lecturers to assess students on an ongoing basis, which supports better assistance and quicker response to difficulties.

High effectiveness: Studies show that as many as 97% of lecturers using business simulations evaluate them positively, and 95% would recommend them to their colleagues.

Final conclusions

To successfully apply for funding under the competition “Effective university management to minimize the drop-out phenomenon,” the application must be based on a solid analysis of the phenomenon and specific, well-thought-out actions. Business simulations are an excellent tool to help achieve these goals by providing students with practical skills and engaging them in the learning process.

How simulations in education transform learning?

Education, Simulations

Business education has been in the curriculum of higher education institutions, secondary schools, and further education colleges for many years. So have the teaching methods. Many programs still rely on the traditional model of teaching, that is not sufficient for the students raised in the digital world anymore. By incorporating new approaches and innovations in education, you can help your school stand out in an increasingly competitive educational environment.