Authors : Abhishek Kumar; Repudi Vijayalatha

Volume/Issue : Volume 11 - 2026, Issue 4 - April

Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/j3ntpup8

Scribd : https://tinyurl.com/2tmv86md

DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/26apr2468

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Abstract : In higher education, student engagement is mostly acknowledged as critical for assessing academic success and retention. This study investigates the usefulness of several engagement techniques, including peer collaboration, mentorship programs, active learning, and digital tools, in raising tertiary student retention rates. The research emphasises the importance of student-centred methods and intrinsic motivation in maintaining academic involvement, and it is based on constructivist and self-determination theories. The study uses a mixed-methods research strategy, combining qualitative and quantitative techniques to provide a thorough analysis. Students are given standardised questionnaires to complete as part of the quantitative component, which focuses on their opinions and experiences on academic engagement strategies. Semistructured interviews and focus groups with academic advisers and professors are part of the qualitative component, which aims to comprehensively understand the institutional strategies and challenges associated with student retention. Utilising a mixed-methods research approach, the study offers a comprehensive analysis using qualitative and quantitative methodologies. As part of the quantitative component, students are given standardised questionnaires to complete that centre on their experiences and opinions regarding academic engagement strategies. The qualitative component includes semistructured interviews and focus groups with professors and academic advisers to better understand the institutional strategy and obstacles related to student retention. Early results indicate that individualised mentoring, engaging classroom settings, prompt feedback, and extracurricular activities are the best ways to promote community and academic perseverance. This study offers policy recommendations for educational institutions seeking to lower dropout rates and enhance student achievement through targeted engagement interventions. By examining student involvement as a multifaceted construct crucial for sustained academic success in higher education, the study adds to the developing body of literature on the subject.

Keywords : Engagement, Academic Involvement, Retention, Extracurricular, Achievement

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