Do or die: student support interventions for the survival of distance education institutions in a competitive higher education system

Despite numerous supports for undergraduates, low success rate has been a growing concern in the South African university system. Guided by Moore's [1993. "Theory of Transactional Distance." In Theoretical Principles of Distance Education, edited by Keegan, 22-38. London: Routledge.] transactional distance theory, this mixed-methods study measured suppositions that providing support to undergraduates result in continued survival of open and distance learning (ODL) institutions and promote student success. The study wanted to develop a support framework that will reduce attrition and maximise retention and success and to enable ODL to gain 'fit' within the competitive higher education terrain. The study is significant for ODL institutions to enhance an understanding of support for undergraduates, address attrition and ensure retention. While thirty-five undergraduates completed questionnaires, module coordinators' perceptions were determined using in-depth interviews. Analysis amalgamated thematic categorisation and descriptive statistical examination. Results indicated that supports offer ODL a competitive advantage, reduced attrition, escalated retention and success rate. These results highlight the importance of support in ODL in South Africa.