Desarrollo y evaluación de una experiencia piloto de mentoría con estudiantes de primer ciclo de Educación Superior a Distancia, Centro Universitario Asociado de La Troncal período octubre 2015 febrero 2016

Abstract

Abstract:The present research is deployed as support and accompaniment for undergraduate students at the Universidad Técnica Particular de Loja in its distance modality, Associated Center of La Troncal, Province of Cañar. The purpose of this research is to promote and improve the quality of the orientation processes due to the high early dropout rates. The individuals involved in this study are: a graduate student (mentor), five undergraduate students (mentees) and a management team from the UTPL (counselors). The methodology used mainly includes the participatory action research method that aims to solve problems on the basis of detected needs. In addition, for developing this study bibliographic and field research techniques were used. The applications of instruments such as questionnaires contributed to the identification of the academic needs and the information of the mentees. Having analyzed the information gathered, it can be concluded that undergraduate students, at the beginning of their studies, need suitable tools that could enhance their critical thinking skills and the use of self-paced techniques of study. Furthermore, motivation and support play an important role in the insertion and adaptation to this distance studies modality.