Análisis de la deserción estudiantil en el programa ingeniería de alimentos de la universidad de cartagena durante el periodo académico 2009 - 2013

Abstract

The aim of this study was to analyze the causes of dropout in the Food Engineering Program at the University of Cartagena. Information from the System Analysis and Prevention Dropout in Higher Education Institutions, a tool of the Colombian Ministry of Education was obtained. Also, information gathered by classroom surveys, email questioning and telephone calls to a representative sample of 60 students of 22.1 years of age who had abandoned studies. The highest dropout occurred in the first four semesters. The average per semester was 10.75%, while the cumulative 55.87%, which was above the average for similar programs in Colombia with 10.53% and 52.89% respectively. Most students attributed the decision for discontinuing studies to their personal economic situation. This paper concludes that it is necessary to design plans that allow a more comprehensive support of students at risk for reducing dropout rates.