Online Student Support:A Framework for Embedding Support Interventions into the Online Learning Cycle

Support is one of the vital elements of online students’ success. Although many support strategieshave been documented in the past, less is known at what stages of the learning cycle suggestedinterventions can be best embedded into the online learning curriculum. This paper aims to addressthis gap. First, it offers a systematic review of the empirical research on effective supportinterventions, as well as analyses recommendations for student support retrieved from the researchon online student attrition and retention. Secondly, by utilizing an Inclusive Student Services ProcessModel, this paper indicates areas where considered strategies can be embedded into the onlinelearning cycle. The analysis suggests that support strategies and services offered at different stages ofstudents learning cycle and embrace all the aspects of the university experience, includingadministrative and pastoral, hold a great potential for ensuring online student success. Yet, there is aneed for the development of the criteria of quality and effectiveness of existing support intervention