The correct spelling of the term "dropout rate" is /ˈdrɒp.aʊt reɪt/. The first syllable is pronounced as "drop" with a schwa sound in the second position. The "out" in the second syllable is pronounced as /aʊt/ with a diphthong sound. In the final syllable, the "ate" is pronounced as /reɪt/ with a long "a" sound. The term refers to the percentage of students who leave school before completing their education, which is of concern to educators and policymakers.
Dropout rate refers to the percentage or proportion of individuals who leave a particular educational institution or program before completing it. It is a measure used to assess the level of attrition or discontinuation among students or participants in an educational setting. Dropout rates are commonly calculated by dividing the number of individuals who drop out of a specific institution or program by the total number of individuals enrolled at the beginning of the period under consideration, and then multiplying the result by 100.
High dropout rates are often considered indicators of educational system failure, as they reflect a lack of student engagement, support, or satisfaction. A higher dropout rate can have negative implications for both individuals and society, including limited opportunities for personal and career development, increased poverty levels, decreased workforce productivity, and higher social costs. Causes of dropout rates can be multifaceted and include factors such as financial limitations, academic difficulties, lack of motivation, personal circumstances, or a mismatch between expectations and reality.
Governments, educational institutions, and policymakers often use dropout rate data to identify patterns, trends, and contributing factors, with the aim of implementing targeted interventions and resources to reduce dropout rates and improve educational outcomes. Efforts may include providing support services, offering alternative pathways to success, addressing individual needs, enhancing school culture, and promoting policies to ensure a conducive learning environment, all in an effort to maximize student retention and achievement.
The etymology of the word "dropout rate" can be broken down as follows:
- "Dropout": The word "dropout" originated in the early 20th century and is derived from the verb phrase "to drop out". It originally referred to a student who withdraws from school or college without completing their studies.
- "Rate": The word "rate" comes from the Latin word "rata", meaning "reckoned, calculated". It entered the English language in the late Middle English period and refers to a measure, quantity, or frequency that is calculated or compared against another value.
When combined, "dropout rate" refers to the measurement or calculation of the frequency or quantity of students who leave or withdraw from school or college before completing their studies.