Both intrinsic and extrinsic factors affect whether students feel interested in a course and are inspired to work hard in a class.
Many factors impact student retention, some we can control and others we can not (Tinto, 1993), but faculty can have a great deal of impact in helping students stay involved.
Engaging in formative, low stake assessment that gives students a voice and provides you as an instructor information on how to improve and/or continue your support of students in your course.
Students also need regular opportunities for meaningful feedback that goes beyond just grades.