Determinants of dropout in higher education from a micro perspective: a literature review analysis applying the PRISMA method
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.70577/asce.v5i1.665Keywords:
School dropout, Higher education, University student, Evaluation of education, Academic failureAbstract
Higher education is responsible for preparing students to work as professionals and driving the economic growth of nations. However, in Latin America, dropout rates are close to 54% and are expected to continue rising. Therefore, the objective of this research is to identify the main determinants of dropout rates in higher education from a micro perspective. A literature review was conducted using a descriptive and analytical approach, based on the application of the PRISMA method. The following processes were applied: hypothesis formulation, information search, selection, extraction, and analysis. Thirteen scientific articles were used for the baseline information. The determining factors influencing university dropout were identified, the main ones being individual, socioeconomic, academic, and institutional. The principal causes of university dropout were also classified. These included students' interest, academic performance, financing, study conditions, employment alternatives, and family environment. Internal factors considered were individual/personal and academic, while external factors included the university, the environment, and the support the student receives. The most recurrent determinants of university dropout were identified, which generally include individual/personal factors, academic/performance factors, university/administration factors, environmental/context factors, and internal/external support. Future projects should link these identified determinants to the students' psychological state.
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