Análisis de los factores sociodemográficos y académicos asociados a la prolongación académica de estudiantes de la Carrera de Trabajo Social de la Universidad de Cuenca, 2019-2024

Abstract

The analysis of sociodemographic and academic factors associated with the academic prolongation of students of the Social Work Career at the University of Cuenca, during the period 2029-2024, is fundamental to understand the dynamics that influence the time required to complete their studies. This study seeks to identify how variables such as age, gender, socioeconomic level and academic conditions impact the duration of the educational process, considering the prolongation not as a failure, but as a complex phenomenon linked to various personal and contextual circumstances. The research was carried out using an exploratory-descriptive qualitative approach and a phenomenological design, using non -probabilistic convenience sampling. In-depth interviews and focus groups were used as data collection techniques, processed with ATLAS.ti version 9 software. The results revealed that factors such as socioeconomic level, family situation and cultural environment are determinants in academic prolongation. In addition, problems in the academic environment that generate frustration and low self-esteem in students were identified. In response, strategies are proposed to promote inclusion, support networks and appropriate teaching methods that favor student well-being.