| dc.description.abstract | Decades of research focused on student retention in higher education have produced theoretical models which, despite being valuable, fail to characterize the convoluted nature of factors influencing retention outcomes. This thesis proposes a novel approach to understanding and addressing challenges of retention utilizing systems thinking. Through this method, institutions and departments are better able to identify areas of need and implement targeted solutions for the individualized nature of the problem. This systems map offers a more holistic perspective than the traditional siloed retention interventions. Implementing a student-centric approach, such as in virtual community support programs, or an institutional-centric approach, such as in a departmental climate survey, allows universities to strike a balance for the multifaceted challenges of addressing retention gaps. Integrating these approaches via the proposed systems map presents a promising avenue to tackle the ever-growing challenge of student retention within higher education. | en_US |
