Understanding Failure Through Subjective Lenses: A Typology of Student Perspectives

Student failure is a multidimensional and complex concept influenced by multiple factors. The degree to which students experiencing failure are affected by these factors varies subjectively. The subjective meanings that students attach to failure are crucial for addressing this phenomenon. The aim of this study is to conduct an in-depth analysis of university students' perceptions of the causes of academic failure and to identify different perspectives. The Q method, which combines both quantitative and qualitative approaches, allows for a systematic examination of individuals' subjective thoughts. In this context, 36 undergraduate students from the Faculty of Education at a state university in Turkey participated in the study. The analysis of the data identified four factors representing four distinct perspectives: (1) A Perspective Focused on Psychological Well-being, Learning Environment, and Qualified Faculty, (2) A Meaning- and Purpose-Oriented Perspective, (3) A Critically Reflective Perspective Focused on the Teaching Process and Content, (4) Purpose, Meaning, and University Culture-Focused Perspective. Each perspectives represents different cognitive structures regarding students' academic experiences. This study demonstrates that student failure is not only related to individual factors but also to structural and environmental influences. The findings suggest the need for the development of student support services in universities, diversification of teaching methods, and the expansion of psychological counseling services. The results of this study may contribute to the restructuring of educational policies in a more inclusive and student-centered manner.