DESERCIÓN, SATISFACCIÓN DE LOS ESTUDIANTES Y POLÍTICASDEL PROGRAMA PAAI EN LA UNIVERSIDAD SANTO TOMÁS,BUCARAMANGA, COLOMBIA

Abstract

This article socializes a study conducted at Universidad Santo Tomas Bucaramanga; where the causes that led to desertion in a population of students (not enrolled in the second half of 2013) were investigated, as well as the degree of satisfaction concerning the university, the knowledge about the institutional program for retention and academic sustainability - PAAI; and the intentionality of returning to USTA. Applying a mixed methodology of quantitative (survey) and qualitative (interview) study, and also by consulting focus group of teachers linked to retention programs; the study concludes that the economic aspect and pregnancy are the major causes for scholar desertion. Highly positive aspects of satisfaction concerning Universidad Santo Tomas were inferred. Finally suggestions are given for further improvement policies in favor to qualify accreditation processes through strategies and policies aimed at the permanence of students, and thereby showing standards of social inclusion in the scope of higher education. (English) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]