Student Permanence in Distance Higher Education Courses: Connections between Brazil and Portugal

Abstract

The issue of student retention in distance higher education courses is a global concern, regardless of country, language, or economy. However, it is not always possible to identify a relationship between countries focused on promoting principles of quality education. Therefore, this article aims to highlight managers' views of two universities, one located in Brazil and the other in Portugal, on the issue of student retention in distance higher education courses. The study presents an analysis of the practices adopted in higher education institutions, providing an opportunity to identify possible factors that contribute to student attrition. The study analyzes the good practices adopted in higher education institutions, providing an opportunity to identify ways that contribute to mitigating student dropout in an intercultural scenario. Based on the feedback received, it is possible to identify convergences between the two groups of managers, for example when it comes to suggesting strategies for implementation. However, there are also divergences regarding other factors, such as the strategies currently used. To enrich the perspective, other important elements for reflection in the search for better university retention rates are also presented.