Why do HE Students Drop Out? A test of Tinto's model

Abstract

This study examined Tinto's (1975) model of student attrition, which suggests that student's dropout decisions are social and academic worlds. The model was tested with path analysis using LISREL8 software (Jöreskog & Sörbom, 1993a) using maximum likelihood estimation. Findings were that the model does not provide an acceptable description of the data. The findings were based on a global test of the model as a whole, as well as tests of individual paths within the model. Prior investigations into the model have been largely supportive, and reasons are considered for the disparity between previous and current findings. It is suggested that Tinto's perspective may not be the most appropriate for attrition research. Instead it is contended that interactionist and ethnographic approaches may result in a more appropriate theoretical framework.