Factors Associated with Student Dropout in Latin American Universities: Scoping Review

Abstract

Dropping out of university studies is present all over the world and is considered a problem of social impact that affects the student's economy, the family and the State. In recent years, the health crisis due to COVID-19 and socio-political problems have increased university dropout in some countries. The present study systematically and comprehensively explored primary studies on the factors and variables involved in dropping out of university students. The research was reviewed in the Latin American context in the last ten years, in the following databases: Scielo, Web of Science, and ProQuest. The selection and inclusion of the 21 studies was carried out according to the scoping review methodology. The findings show a positive trend in the last three years in the production of articles; the factors and associated variables were grouped according to the recommendations of the ALFA-GUIA project for a better understanding. It is concluded that factors and variables such as: Academic: academic performance, Individual: lack of motivation, Economic: family economic support, and Institutional: academic and psychological support are the main factors when deciding to abandon a university career.

Received: 11 November 2023 / Accepted: 25 February 2024 / Published: 5 March 2024