The influence of synchronous technology and interaction on satisfaction and retention for online students

The flexibility of distance learning attracts students to enroll in online courses. Unfortunately, many students do not persist in online courses and, as a result, colleges and universities experience low retention rates. Satisfied students are more likely to persist and continue with online courses. Synchronous technology and interaction can influence student satisfaction and retention. This quantitative study surveyed students who had completed at least one online course at the undergraduate or graduate level. The survey investigated the ways that synchronous technology and interaction influence student satisfaction with an online course and student retention. Data analysis revealed that interaction influenced student retention and satisfaction in online courses.