Risk management as an aid to improve student throughput.

Abstract

The South African higher education system is still challenged by low throughput rates. Despite the phenomenon being examined from various perspectives, the problem still persists. Measures to address the situation has had limited success thus far. The purpose of the study was to explore the use of risk management as a tool to identify and manage the risk of low student throughput rates paying particular attention at the Durban University of Technology. A case study methodology located within the interpretive paradigm was employed in this mixed method study. The interpretive paradigm enabled the researcher to focus on the individual perspective and experiences. The quantitative participants were second- and third-year students in the Accounting cluster (Durban Campus). Qualitative data was generated through semi structured interviews. Quantitative data was obtained through surveys issued to students. Qualitative data used a purposive sampling technique and quantitative data used simple random sampling. A limitation of the study was that it was based on a single institution. Based on the findings of the study it is recommended that the university adopt a risk management approach in relation to low throughput rates. In addition, the university should craft an ‘at-risk’ policy that provides specific details on the identification and management of ‘at-risk’ students. The policy should be widely disseminated to all relevant stakeholders.