Underlying Elements of Academic Persistence in Engineering and Technical Programs

The present study aimed to identify underlying elements of academic persistence in challenging programs. Identification of factors may serve to understand the phenomenon of academic persistence, given the pervasive problems of schools in student attrition and drop out behaviors, especially in challenging programs. Using the theory of personal investment, a descriptiveresearch was undertaken that elucidated underlying factors of academic persistence, namely, Choosing to Stay, School Settings and Conditions, and Persistence Behaviors. Pilot testing was conducted among 572 identified academic persisters, and after undertaking exploratory factors analysis, 4-5 subfactors were identified per domain. Identification of subfactors render further understanding of academic persistence, especially in the unique niche of challenging programs. Results and conclusions follow.