Factors for student retention: Perspectives from four Chilean educational communities

Abstract

Understanding the factors that influence student retention in the educational system is essential to develop effective educational policies and strategies. For this reason, this study aimed to understand, from the perspective of principals, teachers, support professionals, students, and families of four high schools in Valparaíso (Chile), what are the factors that favor school retention. For this purpose, from a qualitative approach and a phenomenological design, semi-structured interviews and focus groups were conducted with a total of 84 participants, which were analyzed following the guidelines of Grounded Theory. The main findings and conclusions reveal that the factors for school retention are multidimensional and correspond to macro and micro-educational dimensions.