Factors Influencing Students' Decision in Choosing Majors of Study at the National University of Laos, and Causes of Students' Dropout and Pause of Studies

Student decision-making, factors, major choice, dropout, pause, and extension of studies

Abstract

This mixed-methods study examines the factors influencing students' decision-making in choosing majors at the National University of Laos (NUOL), as well as the causes of student dropout and pause of studies. This study also seeks to investigate three hypotheses regarding the relationship between Year 7 Secondary School Students and their likelihood of continuing their studies at the university. Specifically, the study aims to examine whether there is a statistically significant association between (1) the educational qualifications of students' fathers and their ability to provide financial support for further education; (2) students' intentions to pursue higher education and their family's capacity to support them; and (3) students' aspirations for future careers and their likelihood of continuing their studies at university. By exploring these relationships, this study aims to gain a deeper understanding of the factors that influence students' decisions to continue their education beyond secondary school. A total of 2102 respondents, including current students, students who dropped out or paused studies, and Year 7 secondary school students from three provinces, participated in the study. The findings indicate that students' decision-making is influenced by a range of factors. The results suggest that students' choices of major are significantly influenced by a combination of personal factors, such as (1) personal fit/interest, motivation and self-determination, (2) program reputation and quality, and (3) career prospects. The study's findings indicate that students' perceptions of family support for further study are significantly influenced by their fathers' qualifications, with students whose fathers have higher qualifications being more likely to believe their family can support their education. Additionally, students who believe their family can support their education are more likely to desire to continue studying after finishing school, and students with specific career aspirations are more likely to want to continue studying. Overall, the study highlights the importance of considering the role of family support and parental education in shaping students' educational aspirations and plans.
The study's findings reveal that students' decisions to drop out or pause their studies at NUOL are influenced by various factors, including parental and teacher support, residential location, university quality, economic and financial factors, and academic difficulties. Economics, the quality of the university and academic performance are significant factors, with students who are dissatisfied with the university's quality and struggle with financial and academic difficulties being more likely to drop out or pause their studies. Overall, the study's findings suggest that students' decisions to continue or discontinue their studies are influenced by a complex interplay of factors, highlighting the importance of providing adequate support and resources to help students succeed. The study's results have implications for university administrators, educators, and policymakers seeking to improve student retention and academic success. The findings suggest that universities should provide additional support services to students, including financial support, academic counselling, tutoring, and mentoring programs, as well as develop initiatives to engage parents in the education process. Additionally, career guidance and counselling services can help students explore their career options and make informed decisions about their major choices. The study's recommendations can inform evidence-based interventions aimed at reducing student dropout and pause of studies, as well as increasing student enrolment and retention rates at the National University of Laos.