Causal Factors Influencing Student Persistence in Pathum Thani Provincial Office of Learning Encouragement Under The Department of Learning Encouragement

Abstract

This research article aimed to (1) study the causal factors influencing the retention of students under the Pathum Thani Provincial Office for Non-Formal and Informal Education, (2) develop a causal model of factors affecting student retention, and (3) verify the consistency of the developed model with empirical data. This study employed a quantitative research methodology, using concepts such as goal commitment, academic and social integration, self-efficacy, and participation behavior as the research framework. The sample consisted of 387 upper secondary school students expected to graduate in the second semester of the 2024 academic year, selected through systematic random sampling. Data were collected using a questionnaire and analyzed by descriptive statistics and structural equation modeling (SEM). The research findings were as follows:

The causal factors affecting student retention included goal commitment, academic integration, social integration, self-efficacy, and participation behavior. Goal commitment was found to have the strongest direct effect on retention (B = 0.62, p < .001). 1) The developed model demonstrated a clear structure, particularly the indirect effect of self-efficacy on retention through goal commitment (B = 0.41, p < .001), and the indirect effect of participation behavior on retention through goal commitment (B = 0.28, p < .01). 2) The model showed a good fit with the empirical data (χ² = 94.75, df = 82, p = 0.16, GFI = 0.95, AGFI = 0.91, CFI = 0.98, RMSEA = 0.031). 3) The findings of this research can be applied to formulate policies or strategies to enhance student retention in the non-formal and informal education system.