Learner Motivation and Engagement in Relation to Reducing Dropout Rates in Vocational Education: Perspectives on Educational Human Resource Management
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Abstract
Student dropout is a significant issue that affects educational quality, human capital development, and a country’s competitiveness, particularly in vocational education, which plays an important role in developing a skilled workforce with competencies and occupational skills aligned with labor market demands. This integrative review aims to synthesize knowledge regarding the roles of student motivation and engagement in reducing dropout rates. Relevant concepts, theories, and research from both domestic and international academic sources were reviewed, analyzed, compared, and synthesized using an integrative approach. The synthesis findings indicate that intrinsic motivation, including interest in learning, commitment to educational goals, and perceived value of education, contributes to students’ persistence in the education system. Meanwhile, extrinsic motivation, such as support from families, teachers, and educational institutions, scholarships, and career opportunities, helps strengthen students’ effort and continuity in learning. In addition, student engagement with educational institutions, teachers, peers, and learning activities, together with a learning environment that promotes participation, helps reduce the risk of dropout. Furthermore, the concept of human resource management can be applied to systematically develop student support systems, enhance motivation, and strengthen student engagement. Based on this synthesis, the article proposes the M–E–R Model (Motivation–Engagement–Retention Model), an integrative conceptual framework linking student motivation, engagement, and retention, with Educational Human Resource Management serving as a supporting mechanism. The model provides guidance for educational administrators, teachers, and policymakers in developing measures to reduce dropout rates, enhance the quality of vocational education, and support future research and policy development related to workforce development.
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