Sing, Nevensha2016-03-072016-03-072015Sing, Nevensha (2015) Stories of students identified as at-risk: insights into student retention and support at a South African University, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, <http://wiredspace.wits.ac.za/handle/10539/20003>http://hdl.handle.net/10539/20003A thesis submitted to the Wits School of Education, Faculty of Humanities, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, in fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of PhilosophyThe perturbing phenomenon of wastage (revealed through incidences of unsatisfactory levels of student retention, poor pass and completion rates and an increase in repetition rates) is a course of concern for universities as it has a bearing on financial expenditure as well as institutional reputation. For the purpose of this study being at-risk is synonymous with being vulnerable.Student vulnerability is not a homogeneous phenomenon and therefore different student support structures, strategies and policies need to be devised for different issues and problems experienced by vulnerable students. This study argues that as long as effective and adequate institutional support is lacking, student vulnerability will continue to be a 'wastage' catalyst. [Abbreviated Abstract. Open document to view full version - Abstract would not load onto DSpace]Online resource (xviii, 237 leaves)enDropouts--South AfricaUniversities and colleges--South AfricaEducation, Higher--South Africa--EvaluationMinorities--Education--South AfricaAcademic achievement--South AfricaYouth with social disabilities--Education--South AfricaNarrative inquiry (Research method)--South AfricaThesis