A Mixed-Methods Study on the Self-Directed Learning of University Students Participating in a Non-Curricular Program for Academic Enhancement: Focused on Cases of Students on Academic Probation at K University

The purpose of this study is to analyze the self-directed learning of academic probation students who participated in K University's non-curricular program from 2022 to 2024 and propose ways to contribute to improving the quality of university education and prevent dropouts at the university level by seeking more effective academic support. From 2022 to 2024, 241 people who are enrolled in K University and applied to the academic promotion program after receiving a suspension(less than grade 1.5) are the subjects of the study. For quantitative data analysis, t-test verification was conducted, and Creswell(2012) research methods were used for qualitative case study analysis. The difference in the impact of the academic promotion comparison program on the self-directed learning level of the subject of academic probation was statistically significant, and the overall reliability was .807. Specifically, the self-directed learning level of the group participating in the program had a higher post-score than the pre-score, and the post-score was higher in all sub-factors. In addition, it was confirmed that participation in the program brought positive changes personally and academically. Based on this study, it is expected that university students with academic probation can continue to maintain their studies through effective learning activities with a positive attitude toward their studies, and furthermore, it is expected to be used as basic data for the development of a academic probation management program that positively affects the reduction of dropout rates at universities.